Sam Mendes' epic film 1917 told the story of two soldiers charged with delivering a vital message to the front line. At a time when communications technology was in its infancy, the most reliable way to get such messages from unit to unit across battlefields was by hand. The role of runners in the Great War, on both sides, was therefore central to each army's plans and, as Mendes depicted so brilliantly, saw the fate of thousands lying in the hands, and feet, of a few brave souls.
"The runners' job was the hardest and most dangerous" of all jobs in the infantry, was how World War I veteran Lt. Allan L. Dexter recalled them in an article from 1931
Here are the stories of a few of these bravest of runners:
From the London Gazette: "Private Miller was ordered to take an important message under heavy shell and rifle fire, and to bring back a reply at all costs. He was compelled to cross the open, and on leaving the trench was shot almost immediately in the back...in spite of this, with heroic courage and self-sacrifice, he compressed the gaping wound, delivered his message, staggered back with his answer, and fell dead at the feet of the officer to whom he delivered it. He gave his life with a supreme devotion to duty."
His official war citation: “The platoon to which Private Cruickshank belonged came under very heavy rifle and machine-gun fire...the officer in command was shot dead...the only remaining N.C.O. (a lance-corporal), called for a volunteer to take a message. Private Cruickshank immediately responded but was hit. He rose, but, being again wounded, rolled back. After his wounds had been dressed he rushed a third time and again fell badly wounded. Being now unable to stand, he rolled himself back amid a hail of bullets. His wounds were now of such a nature as to preclude him making any further attempt and he lay all day in a dangerous position, being sniped at. He displayed the utmost valour and endurance, and was cheerful and uncomplaining throughout.”
His official citation: “Private Wilkinson...succeeded in delivering the message, though the journey involved exposure to extremely heavy machine-gun and shell fire for 600 yards. He showed magnificent courage and complete indifference to danger, thinking only of the needs of his company and entirely disregarding any consideration for personal safety.”
No comments:
Post a Comment