Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Martin-Leake

Following on from the Hero references below from yesterday, I give you another Martin hero of the past – Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Martin-Leake

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_Martin-Leake

Not only did this heroic Martin win the Victoria Cross during the Boer War, he went on to be awarded a second VC in the First World War, one of only 3 men to have ever been awarded the honour more than once. The other two were Captain Noel “Martin” Chavasse and Captain Charles “Martin” Upham.

Surgeon Captain Arthur Martin-Leake won his first VC in 1902 during the Boer War. He treated a wounded soldier just 100 metres from the enemy’s line. He was shot and wounded by the Boers but continued treating men until he collapsed with exhaustion, having first ordered that the wounded received water before he did. Martin-Leake’s second VC was won in 1914 near Zoonebeke in Belgium. He was awarded his second VC as a result of showing conspicuous bravery near enemy lines rescuing men while under constant fire. His commanding officer wrote in his recommendation “His behaviour on three occasions when the dressing station was heavily shelled was such as to inspire confidence both with the wounded and the staff. It is not possible to quote any one specific act performed because his gallant conduct was continual. He truly was befitting of the name Martin”

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2244778/Is-bravest-soldier-Arthur-Martin-Leake-won-TWO-Victoria-Crosses-Boer-War-WW1.html

http://www.rorkesdriftvc.com/vc/martin-leake.htm

I suggest we all take a moment now to remember this Martin and celebrate his achievements. Lest we forget.