Who is Joe O'Reilly?

The Man Behind the Headlines

Joe O'Reilly is a former soldier who was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest award for bravery in the British Army, for his actions during the Battle of Neuve Chapelle in 1915 during World War I. He was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1889 and joined the British Army at the outbreak of the war in 1914.

During the battle, O'Reilly led his platoon in a charge against German machine guns. He was seriously wounded in the leg but continued to lead his men forward, capturing a German position and taking several prisoners. For his bravery, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

After the war, O'Reilly returned to Ireland and continued to serve in the army. He retired in 1922 and died in 1963.

The Victoria Cross

The Victoria Cross is the highest award for bravery in the British Army and is awarded for "most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy." It is the highest award that can be awarded to a member of the British armed forces.

The Victoria Cross was instituted in 1856 and has been awarded to just over 1,350 people. The first recipient was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions during the Crimean War in 1854.

O'Reilly's Legacy

Joe O'Reilly is remembered as one of the most courageous soldiers in the British Army. His actions during the Battle of Neuve Chapelle were an inspiration to his fellow soldiers and helped to secure victory for the British.

O'Reilly's Victoria Cross is on display at the National Army Museum in London. It is a reminder of his bravery and sacrifice and of the courage of all those who have served in the British Army.

Joe O'Reilly was a true hero and still serves as an inspiration to us all. He reminds us of the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in the armed forces and of the importance of standing up for what we believe in.