Mark Sever Bell

Mark Sever Bell (VC, CB) (15 May 1843–?) was an English 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. Born in New South Wales, Australia, his family travelled to England when he was an infant.

He was 30 years old, and a Lieutenant in the Corps of Royal Engineers, British Army during the First Ashanti Expedition when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 4 February 1874 at the Battle of Ordashu, Ashanti (now Ghana), Lieutenant Bell was always in front, urging and exhorting an unarmed working party of Fantee labourers who were exposed not only to the fire of the enemy, but to the wild and irregular fire of the native troops to the rear. He encouraged these men to work under fire without a covering party, and this contributed very materially to the success of the day.

He later achieved the rank of Colonel. Grave/memorial at Buried at All Soul's Churchyard, South Ascot, Berkshire, England. Headstone.

His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Royal Engineers Museum (Chatham, England).

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