Hugh Cairns (VC)

Hugh Cairns (VC, DCM) (December 4, 1896 - November 2, 1918) was a Canadian recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

He was 21 years old, and a Sergeant in the 46th South Saskatchewan Bn, Saskatchewan Regiment, Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 1 November 1918 at Valenciennes, France, when a machine-gun opened fire on his platoon, Sergeant Cairns seized a Lewis gun and single-handed, in the face of direct fire, rushed the post, killed the crew of five and captured the gun. Later, after killing 12 of the enemy and capturing 18 and two guns, he went with a small party and, although wounded, outflanked more field and machine-guns, killing many and capturing all the guns. After consolidation he went with a battle patrol to exploit Marly and forced 60 to surrender, but was severely wounded. He later collapsed and died next day.

Grave/memorial at Auberchicourt British Cemetery, France. 10m N. of Cambrai. Plot I. Row A. Grave 8. Headstone.

His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Canadian War Museum (Ottawa, Canada).

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