Source: Michael Doyle Their Name Liveth For Evermore: The Great War Roll of Honour for Leicestershire and Rutland.
He was the son of William John Billington, born 1869 in Bedford (son of Lucy Billington, 1847) and his wife Annie Susan Billington (nee Bennett, married on the 1st February 1886 in St. Cuthbert’s Church, Bedford), born on the 4th December 1866 in St. Cuthbert’s, Bedford (daughter of Joshua (Joab) Bennett, 1841-1908 and Flora Trolley, 1840-1918). William Henry was born on the 29th March 1886 in St. John’s, Bedford, he had one sibling, Frederick Ernest, born on the 7th May 1887 in St. John’s, Bedford. William’s father died, aged 19 years, in the January quarter of 1888 in Bedford. In April 1891 William, a schoolboy was residing as an inmate of the Union Workhouse, Bedford Eastern Ward, St. Peter’s, Bedford. Meanwhile, his widowed mother was employed as a shoe trade fitter and was residing as a boarder at 16, Park Street, Holy Trinity, Leicester. On the 3rd August 1891, William’s widowed mother married Thomas Henry Buckingham in Holy Trinity Church, Leicester. Thomas was born in the October quarter of 1873 in Leicester and baptised on the 13th June 1875 in St. Martin’s Church, Desford, Leicestershire (son of Jacob Buckingham, 1846 and Anne Neale, 1844). Annie and Thomas had a son, Joseph Henry, born on the 19th November 1891 in Leicester. In April 1901 William’s mother was employed as a shoe trade machinist and was residing in the Union Workhouse, Kimbolton Road, Bedford, together with her one-month-old son Charles, meanwhile, William had assumed his stepfather’s surname of Buckingham, and was employed as a tailor, residing with his younger sibling, Frederick, also a tailor, in the Cottage Homes, Countesthorpe, Leicestershire. During the period that William, and his brother Frederick spent in the Cottage homes at Countesthorpe, they were brought up and cared for by Mr and Mrs Harrison. In April 1911, William’s mother was residing at 37, York Street, Bedford together with her son Frederick, a baker, this being the family home of her widowed mother, Flora Bennett, meanwhile William was serving as a Private with the 2nd Battalion Leicestershire Regiment and was stationed at Fort Saint George, Madras, India.
William’s brother Frederick Ernest, enlisted into the 16th Lancers serving as Private, 10290, and he first entered the theatre of war in France on the 12th October 1915, he later transferred to the Royal Warwickshire Regiment serving as Private, 34185, and with this Regiment he was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal, and like his older brother was decorated for gallantry in the field, being awarded the Military Medal, London Gazette, dated 12th June 1918. He was also awarded the 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory Medals. Frederick survived the war.
FAMILY NOTE: There is no trace of the birth of Charles Buckingham, recorded as Annie’s one month old son in the 1901 census return, nor is there any record of where her husband, Thomas Henry Buckingham or their son, Joseph Henry Buckingham were residing after their marriage in August 1891.
William enlisted/attested into the Regular Army on the 29th November 1901 in Leicester, and was allotted the regimental service number 6276. He gave his place of birth as Leicester and age as 15 years 9 months. His marital status was given as unmarried and his trade or calling as tailor. He gave his present address as Cottage Homes, Countesthorpe, Leicestershire. (9 years).
NOTE: William attested as William Edward Buckingham.
His medical history was compiled during an examination that took place in Leicester on the 29th November 1901 and recorded his birthplace as Parish not known, Leicestershire, declared age as 15 years 9 months, trade or occupation as tailor, that he was 5-feet 2⅛ inches in height, weighed 98 lbs, had a chest measurement of between 31 and 33½ inches, his physical development was described as good.
His description on enlistment recorded his apparent age as 15 years 9 months, height 5-feet 2⅛ inches weight 98 lbs, chest measurement of between 31 and 33½ inches his complexion was described as fresh, he had brown eyes and his hair colour was dark brown. The following distinctive marks were noted, scar over right eyebrow. He gave his religion as Church of England.
He was certified as fit for the Army. Date 29th November 1901. Place Leicester.
He gave his next of kin as his brother, Frederick Buckingham, Cottage Homes, Countesthorpe, Leicestershire.
During his period of military service, the following events of note occurred: -
Joined. At Leicester. 29/11/01.
Posted. To Depot, Leicestershire Regt. Boy. 29/11/01.
Transferred. To 2nd Bn. Leicestershire Regt. Pte. 12/5/02.
Embarked. Per S.S. Rameses. 12/5/02.
Granted. 1d Good Conduct Pay. 24/5/03.
Stationed. Alexandria. 26/5/02.
Embarked. Per S.S. -?-. 30/11/03.
Stationed. At Guernsey. 15/12/02.
Attained the age of 18 years. 29/2/04.
Stationed. At Colchester. 29/9/04.
Granted. Messing Allowance. 1/3/05.
Forfeits. 1d Good Conduct Pay. 4/9/05.
Admitted. To Hospital. Aldershot. 9/9/05 – 30/9/05.
Awarded 10 days imprisonment with hard labour -?- for misconduct. 2/10/05.
To duty. 12/10/05.
Stationed. At Colchester. 20/2/06.
Transferred. To 1st Bn. Leicestershire Regt. Pte. 28/2/06.
Embarked. Per S.S. -?-. 28/2/06.
Granted. Service Pay Class II @ 4d. 11/3/06.
Posted. To 2nd Bn. Leicestershire Regt. Pte. 16/10/06.
Restored. 1st Good Conduct Badge (without pay). 20/11/06.
Advanced. To Class II Service Pay @ 5d. 15/3/07.
Forfeits. 1st Good Conduct Badge for misconduct. 16/11/07.
Admitted. To Hospital, Belgaum, jaundice. 13/4/08 – 29/4/08.
Stationed. At Bellary. 6/3/11.
Passed. 3rd Class Army Certificate of Education. 22/7/11.
Admitted. To Hospital, Bellary, malaria. 17/8/11 – 29/8/11.
Re-engaged. At Madras for the Leicestershire Regt. to complete 21 years’ service. Authority of Officer Commanding. 11/12/12.
Stationed. At Bareilly. 11/2/13.
Stationed. At Ranikhet. 23/3/13.
Posted. To Depot Leicestershire Regt. Pte. 15/3/15.
Posted. To 3rd Bn. Leicestershire Regt. Pte. 1/4/16.
Appointed. Lance Corporal (paid). 8/4/16.
Embarked. At Southampton to join the British Expeditionary Force. 12/4/16.
Landed. Joined 6th Infantry Brigade Depot. 13/4/16.
Posted. To 1st Bn. Leicestershire Regt. Lance Corporal. 13/4/16.
Joined. 8th Entrenching Bn. 23/4/16.
Appointed. Acting Corporal. 28/4/16.
Joined. 1st Bn. Leicestershire Regt. In the Field. 15/5/16.
Reverts. To permanent rank of Private (unpaid Lance Corporal on joining Bn.). 15/5/16.
Reverts. To Private at own request. 21/5/16.
Reported sick, teeth. 9/7/16.
Re-joined Bn. In the Field. 11/7/16.
Killed in action. Place not stated. In the Field. 15/9/16.
Summary of Service.
Home Service. 29/11/01 – 11/5/02. 1 year 164 days.
Egypt. 12/5/02 – 14/12/02. 216 days.
Home Service. 15/12/02 – 27/2/06. 3 years 75 days.
India. 28/2/06 – 19/9/14. 8 years 204 days.
Voyage to France. 20/9/14 – 11/10/14. 22 days.
Expeditionary Force, France. 12/10/14 – 14/3/15. 154 days.
Home Service. 15/3/15 – 12/4/16. 1 year 30 days.
France. 13/4/16 – 15/9/16. 157 days.
Total Service. 14 years 292 days.
He was awarded the Victoria Cross, 1914 Star with Clasp & Rose, British War Medal and Victory Medal.
SERVICE RECORD NOTE: In September 1940, as the result of a fire caused by an incendiary bomb at the War Office Record Store in Arnside Street, London, approximately two thirds of 6.5 million soldiers’ documents for the First World War were destroyed. Those records which survived were mostly charred or water damaged and unfit for consultation and became known as the “burnt documents.” As a consequence, the content and condition of the surviving records can range from good to extremely poor. The hand written information is, in some instances barely legible, and the number of pages that should comprise a full record, in some cases are either badly damaged or missing entirely, however where possible the available information has been transcribed so that it may at least offer the reader a little descriptive insight into some, if not all of the events and background information surrounding the period of service.
On Friday April 30th 1915, The Melton Mowbray Times & Vale of Belvoir Gazette published the following article under the heading. “DISTRICT WAR ITEMS” – V.C. FOR A “LEICESTER.” – Private William Buckingham, of the 2nd Battalion Leicestershire Regiment, has been awarded the V.C. for acts of bravery and devotion to duty in rescuing and rendering aid to the wounded, whilst exposed to a heavy fire, especially at Neuve Chappelle, on the 10th and 12th March last. Pte. Buckingham is the first member of the Leicestershire Regiment to gain the coveted honour in the present campaign, and was announced in Wednesday night’s “London Gazette supplement. An extract from the “London Gazette”, dated the 28th April 1915 records the following: - For conspicuous acts of bravery and devotion to duty in rescuing and rendering aid to the wounded whilst exposed to heavy fire, especially at Neuve Chappelle on the 10th and 12th of March 1915.
On Saturday May 1st 1915, The Leicester Chronicle and Leicestershire Mercury published the following article under the heading. “MORE V.C. HEROES.” – A LEICESTER RECIPIENT. PRIVATE BUCKINGHAM’S GALLANTRY. Wednesday night’s “London Gazette” Supplement contained the following notices: - War Office, 28th April 1915. - His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to make the grant of the Victoria Cross to the under mentioned warrant officer, non-commissioned officer and men for their conspicuous acts of bravery and devotion to duty whilst serving with the Expeditionary Force: - No. 6276, PRIVATE WILLIAM BUCKINGHAM, 2nd Battalion Leicestershire Regiment. For conspicuous acts of bravery and devotion to duty in rescuing and remaining with and rendering aid to wounded whilst exposed to heavy fire, especially at Neuve Chapelle, on the 10th and 12th March. Born in 1886, Pte. Buckingham lived at the Countesthorpe Cottage Homes from his sixth to his fifteenth year, when he joined the 2nd Leicester’s and went out with them to Egypt and India, returning with the 1st Indian Expeditionary Force. He was himself wounded at Neuve Chapelle. His only relative is a brother in the Navy.
On Friday May 28th 1915, The Melton Mowbray Times & Vale of Belvoir Gazette published the following article under the heading. “DISTRICT WAR ITEMS.” – PRESENTATION TO PTE. BUCKINGHAM, V.C. – A pleasing little ceremony took place at the Cottage Homes, Countesthorpe, on Friday morning, when, at the request of the officers of the Homes, the Matron presented Private Buckingham, on their behalf, with a gold mounted walking stick, suitably inscribed. The Matron expressed great pleasure at being asked to make the presentation to one of the old boys who had bought honour upon himself and the Homes by his gallant conduct. It was indeed an honour coveted by many and worn by our greatest Generals with pride. In the course of the presentation Mrs. Harrison read to the company several of the many letters of congratulations and testimony from Private Buckingham’s superior officers, Lieutenant Colonel Gordon, Captain Chudleigh, and Brigadier General Blackadder, who all spoke of his sterling worth. In acknowledging the gift, Private Buckingham expressed thanks in a few heartfelt words, and concluded by saying how much he appreciated the affection which prompted the gift of the officers of the only home he had ever known. – A vote of thanks was passed to the matron for making the presentation.
On Friday 16th July 1915, The Leicester Daily Post published the following article under the heading. “LEICESTERSHIRE AND THE WAR.” – PRIVATE BUCKINGHAM, V.C. – Feted at Countesthorpe Cottage Homes. PRESENTATION BY THE MAYOR. Private Buckingham, V.C., of the 2nd Battalion Leicestershire Regiment, was the centre of attention at the Countesthorpe Cottage Homes yesterday. He was lionised by the youngsters, highly complimented by the Mayor, admired by the ladies, looked upon with proud fatherly eyes by the Guardians, and last but not least presented with a handsome token of the appreciation of his gallantry by all sections of the community. The Cottage Homes were marvellously alive with merriment – it was the occasion of the annual treat and athletic sports. That the presentation of £100 worth of war loan and a purse containing ten guineas should have been made on such an occasion was most fitting, bearing in mind the fact that Private Buckingham was brought up at the Homes. The hero of Neuve Chapelle who rescued, remained with, and rendered aid to wounded men whilst exposed to heavy fire on March 10 and March 12, has stirred the hearts of everybody locally; even some of the inmates of the Workhouse persisted in contributing to the testimonial which was organised by the Mayor (Ald. J. North), the Chairman of the Board of Guardians (Mr. W. Smith), and Mr. H. Mansfield (clerk). The following extract from a letter sent to the gallant soldier by Captain Chudleigh, of the Leicestershire Regiment, may be taken as representing the feelings of those who know what war really is: “I am sure you fully deserve the honour,” wrote Captain Chudleigh, “not only for the faithful way in which you have done your work since we have been in France, but also for the excellent qualities you always display in peace times; in fact, ever since I have known you. I think that the best way any man could win such an honour as yours is by a continued display of pluck and endurance, rather than by some single act of bravery, lasting perhaps a minute or two, and aided by good luck.”
THE PRESENTATION.
The presentation was made in the schoolroom after tea, by the Mayor (Ald. J. North), and among those present were the Mayoress (Mrs. North) and the following members of the Board of Guardians:- Mr. W. Smith (chairman), Mr. C. Hagon (vice-chairman), Mr. A. Martin (chairman of the Children’s Committee), Mr. D. G. Holland, Mr. J. Gibson, Mr. H. C. Tomlin, Mr. G. White, Mr. J. L. Harrison, Mr. Reeves, Mr. W. H. Thompson, Mr. West, Mr. C. Harris, Mr. E. G. Coltman, Mr. Cayless, Mr. W. Carver, Mr. J. E. Jordan, Mr. H. Hancock, Mr. T. E, Hassell, Mrs. Holt, Mrs. Ross, Mrs. Bentley, Miss Irwin, and Miss Leeson, and Mr. H. Mansfield (clerk). Others present included Mr. O. B. Stanion, Mr. J. Leeson, Ald. J. Chaplin, Dr. Berresford (medical officer of the Homes), Dr. Hadley (medical superintendent of the Infirmary), Mr. Lovell (Workhouse Master), Mr. McKinlay (steward of the Infirmary) and Mrs. McKinlay, Mrs. Reeves, Mrs. A. Martin, Mrs. Coltman, Mrs. Harris, Mrs. H. G. Hagon, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Gibson, Mrs. Cayless, Mrs. Carver, and Mr. and Mrs. W. Harrison (superintendent and matron of the Homes). Mr. A. Martin said Private Buckingham, V.C., was a man who had made his name sacred right throughout the length and breadth of the British Empire. In the British Army he had served the land for a number of years without any thought of reward. He had given of his best, and his services had been recognised to the extent of conferring the V.C. upon him. Everybody was proud of him, the Guardians and the Cottage Homes particularly. The Mayor, in making the presentation, said he felt it a great honour to be there, and to be asked to perform such a pleasing duty on behalf of the committee and on behalf of the town. When he first heard of Private Buckingham’s success he felt in common with the rest of the inhabitants of Leicester, a great degree of pride, and he took the earliest opportunity of expressing himself by sending to the fortunate recipient a telegram on behalf of the town, congratulating him on what he had done. (Applause.) What he liked best about Private Buckingham was that he was a true hero who discharged his duty unconsciously; in fact, he thought Private Buckingham was more surprised than anyone when he was acquainted with the fact that he was recommended for the coveted honour. That was the right spirit, and one which they all very much admired. He had appeared in public with Private Buckingham, V.C., on more than one or two occasions, and he could bear testimony to his innate modesty. He had told people that there was little risk of him suffering from swelled head. They were proud of his distinction, and they could only hope in his later days the V.C. would comfort him, and that others would try to emulate his devotion, (Hear, hear.) That he had won the V.C. must be taken as evidence of the good training at the schools and of the fatherly and motherly instincts of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison, who had rare gifts. The Mayor then presented Buckingham with the purse of gold and a receipt showing that £100 had been invested on his behalf, and the hero returned thanks by smartly saluting. Mr. O. B. Stanion, a former chairman of the Cottage Homes Committee, presented to the school a large framed photograph of Private Buckingham, and expressed the hope that it would be hung in the schoolroom. Inscribed on the frame was the following: - “Private William Buckingham, V.C., 2nd Battalion Leicestershire Regiment. For conspicuous acts of bravery and devotion to duty in rescuing and remaining with and rendering aid to wounded whilst exposed to heavy fire, especially at Neuve Chapelle, on the 10th and 12th March, 1915. William Buckingham was left un-provided for at the age of six, and had his only home at the Countesthorpe Cottage Homes. ‘For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me, and I say to this man, Go and he goeth, and to another Come, and he cometh, and to my servant do this, and he doth it.’ – Matt. viii., v., 9.” The chairman of the committee (Mr. A. Martin) returned thanks for the gift.
On Friday July 23rd 1915, The Melton Mowbray Times & Vale of Belvoir Gazette published the following article under the heading. “DISTRICT WAR ITEMS.” – GIFT TO LEICESTERSHIRE V.C. At the annual entertainment given at the Countesthorpe Cottage Homes on Thursday night, Private Buckingham V.C., of the 2nd Battalion Leicestershire Regiment was presented with a scrip representing £100 worth of War Loan Stock, the outcome of a subscription initiated by the Leicester Board of Guardians. The total amount of the subscription was £111. 3s 9d, the balance being handed to Buckingham in gold. The presentation was made by the Mayor of Leicester (Ald. J. North), who spoke eulogistically of Buckingham’s heroic conduct in the field and of the manner in which he had upheld the glorious traditions of the Leicestershire Regiment. During convalescence from his wounds Private Buckingham had placed his country under further obligation by the splendid work he had done in Leicester and the county in the furtherance of recruiting. There were other speeches, to which Buckingham made a modest reply.
On Saturday, November 20th, 1915, The Leicester Daily Post published the following article under the heading. “LEICESTERSHIRE AND THE WAR.” – Private Buckingham, V.C. – ACKNOWLEDGES TOWN’S GIFT. – Pte. William Buckingham, V.C., it will be recalled, was presented by the Mayor, on behalf of the townspeople of Leicester, with a purse of gold and a receipt showing £100 had been invested on his behalf. The ceremony took place at a garden fete at the Countesthorpe Cottage Homes on July 15th. On that occasion the hero, soldier fashion, returned thanks by smartly saluting. The following letter has been received by the Mayor: -
Glen Parva Barracks, Wigston,
16th November, 1915.
To his Worship the Mayor of Leicester.
Dear Sir, -
As a soldier not used to speaking in public, I regret I could not publicly return thanks at Countesthorpe for the handsome gift you were good enough to make to me on behalf of the Citizens of Leicester, but I can assure you that I value it most highly, and if I am spared to return to my native town after the war, I shall come back to it with feelings of warm affection.
It would not become of me to write of my personal experiences at Neuve Chapelle. I am sure there are others in the Leicester Regiment who were quite as worthy of the decoration “For Valour,” but they were not so fortunate as to come under notice of superior officers. I only did my duty, and no one was more surprised than I was when informed I had been recommended for the Victoria Cross. I am, of course very proud of it, and I shall try to prove myself worthy of it, and of the Territorial Regiment, which, in this terrible war, is fully upholding the splendid traditions of the old 17th.
It is a matter of very great pleasure to me that the presentation was associated with the Leicester Guardians Cottage Homes at Countesthorpe.
What I owe to Mr. and Mrs. Harrison, the superintendent and matron, I cannot properly express. Had they been my own parents, they could not have looked after my upbringing with greater and more affectionate interest, and it was like going home to go there for my leave, and after recovering from my wounds.
To you, Mr. Mayor, Mr. Walter Smith (Chairman of the Leicester Board of Guardians), and Mr. H. Mansfield, who so kindly organised the town presentation, I feel deeply indebted for all your trouble in the matter.
I can assure you, I accept it, not only with pleasure, but also with deep gratitude. If in some way you can convey thanks to the donors I shall be greatly obliged.
I am, your obedient servant.
(Signed) WILLIAM E. BUCKINGHAM.
The War Diary records: 15 Sep-16 - Battalion moved into its attack position during the night and were finally settled down and ready to attack by 4.30am. 2nd Lieutenant Davis attached Q 6th Division. The Commanding Officer decided to attack with “D” and “B” Companies in the front line, with “D” on the left and “B” on the right. “A” and “C” Companies formed the second line, with “A” on the left and “C” on the right. Two Lewis Guns accompanied each Company, and two were left in reserve with Battalion Headquarters. Two Bombing Squads of ten each were also formed in each Company. These squads carried the full amount of bombs, while every man also carried two Mills No.5 bombs (one in each pocket). The fighting strength of the Battalion going into action was 23 officers including (the Medical Officer and Chaplain) and 643 other ranks. About 5.50am two enemy aeroplanes appeared above us, but did not stay long. About this time also, a Tank was noticed on our right moving quietly up to the enemy’s front line. On arriving there he immediately opened fire with his machine guns, enfilading the German trench on either side. He was very heavily fired on by the enemy’s machine guns which apparently had no effect as he still continued his movements and firing. Nothing further happened till ZERO (6.20am) when the attack commenced. The leading Company’s at once advanced at the walk in from lines 30X entrance between lines. A heavy machine gun fire was immediately opened by the enemy from about T.15 b 0.4. The Support Companies followed on in the same formation 300X in the rear of the last wave of the leading Company. Battalion Headquarters moved immediately in the rear of the last wave of Support Companies. The mist and smoke was terribly thick, and allowed no observation by the Support Company’s and Battalion Headquarters as to what was exactly happening to the leading Companies. Owing to this (mist and smoke) a slight error occurred in direction. The right and left under orders to keep in touch with units attacking on our right and left, moved with these units thereby causing a small gap near our centre. This was immediately filled up by Support Companies. The Artillery barrage opened too late to do any harm as the whole of the Supports had crossed the road moving due south from GINCHY (the place where the barrage was directed) before the barrage commenced. Battalion Headquarters had by this time moved into a shell hole about T.14 b 7.4. Throughout the advance the Battalion suffered very heavily from Machine Gun fire. The Battalion had not gained its objective line held up by very heavy fire, and the very strong and undamaged wire of the trench leading from the North West corner of the Left Quadrilateral (a strong point hitherto unknown). “A” Company immediately entrenched itself on a small ridge about T.14 b 9.6 to T.14 b 8.2. Efforts were made to locate the exact positions of “B,” “C” and “D” Companies. It was found that “B” and “C” were entrenched about T.14 b 7.7 had lost very heavily while unsupported. “D” Company had lost very heavily also and the remainder (“D” Company) were still advancing with the GUARDS and occupying shell holes between our new position and the German wire (a few of the latter came in under the cover of darkness). Good communication was kept with the contact aeroplane by means of flares and groundsheets throughout the day. Great difficulties were experienced in keeping track with Brigade Headquarters owing to the impossibility of using means of wired signalling, and the heavy barrage kept up throughout the day making it impossible for a runner to succeed in getting through. And then later Private PARRY (“A” Company) did excellent work in getting through and returning safely to us, thus three times saving the day, he was finally detained by Brigade Headquarters after a fourth journey. Throughout the day the trenches were improved, and by night everyone had more or less good cover. “A” Company, “B” Company and Headquarters were subjected to heavy shell fire throughout the day. “B” and “C” Company were moved up to where our new line was continued to the right and left. The night was quiet except for heavy sniping in front of “C” Company and its attack on one line of trenches and a communication trench (in course of construction) line carried without any serious opposition. These were occupied by the 9th Bavarian Regiment. No prisoners were taken. Casualties, 2nd Lieutenant J. C. WEBB, 2nd Lieutenant J. G. KENNEDY and Lieutenant A. H. PINDER were all killed. 2nd Lieutenant F. B. STEVENSON, Captain H. PICKBOURNE, 2nd Lieutenant H. A. GRAVES, 2nd Lieutenant W. BLACKLOCK, Captain G. H. SALMON, Lieutenant J. H. JOHN and 2nd Lieutenant R. PICKERSGILL were all wounded. Captain C. W. BERBISON, 2nd Lieutenant G. H. GRISTWOOD, 2nd Lieutenant J. BURNETT and 2nd Lieutenant J. G. GARDNER were all wounded and subsequently died. Other Ranks, “A” Company 23, “B” Company 35, “C” Company 23 and “D” Company 27 were killed. “A” Company 36, “B” Company 69, “C”. Company 56 and “D” Company 60 were wounded. “A” Company 5, “B” Company 11, “C” Company nil and “D” Company 16 missing in action.
On Friday September 29th 1916, The Melton Mowbray Times & Vale of Belvoir Gazette published the following article under the heading. “MELTON AND THE WAR.” – LOCAL V.C. WINNER KILLED. – PRIVATE BUCKINGHAM’S VALIANT DEED RECALLED. News reached Melton Mowbray on Monday that Private William Buckingham, V.C., of the Leicestershire Regiment, was killed in action on the 15th Inst. The regrettable intelligence was conveyed in a letter from Capt. Mosse, in the course of which he said: - “To the best of my knowledge Buckingham had no relatives but perhaps you would be so kind as to convey to intimate friends my deepest sympathy in his loss. For some time past he has been my personal orderly, whom it will be quite impossible to replace. He fell wounded in the thigh by a machine gun bullet and was killed instantaneously by a second bullet which hit him in the head.” Private Buckingham who was about 30 years of age, was brought up by the Leicester poor law Guardians at the Countesthorpe Cottage Homes. He had been in the army some time when war broke out, and came from India with his battalion. It was in the battle of Neuve Chapelle in March 1915, that he won the Victoria Cross for his great gallantry in rescuing wounded men while exposed to heavy fire. In one case it was a German who lay some distance away with one of his legs blown off. Hearing his piteous cries for help Buckingham went out amid a hail of bullets, and administered first aid to him, subsequently conveying him to a place of safety. He again distinguished himself in carrying dispatches from officers in the firing line to the rear. On the third day of the battle, he was severely wounded in the chest with a machine bullet. The missile went partly through a packet of picture post cards he was carrying and caused a superficial wound in the chest, finally lodging in the left arm. On his discharge from the hospital, Buckingham, having no other friends, returned to the Countesthorpe Homes, and it was while the guest of the superintendent and matron, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison, that the intimation reached him of the great distinction he had won. Of a remarkably unassuming nature, Buckingham fought shy of Press interviewers, and it was only by the aid of Mr. Harrison that the barest facts could be gleaned from him of the battle incidents in which he had so prominently figured. A movement was afterwards set on -?- for a presentation to him, and he was given a cheque for £100 which he invested in War Loan. On account of his value as a recruiting factor the military authorities allowed Buckingham to be retained in Leicestershire for some months, during which he attended a large number of recruiting meetings. For this purpose, he was a frequent visitor to Melton Mowbray, where he made numerous friends, and it was due to his presence and example that many young men were induced to join the colours. On resuming his training in a camp in England, Buckingham was promoted to be sergeant. But so keen was he to get back to the fighting line that he gave up his stripes in order that he might go out as one of a draft of privates required by his old battalion. In Leicester and the county, he was exceedingly popular, and his death will be deeply deplored on all hands.
On Friday December 1st 1916, The Melton Mowbray Times & Vale of Belvoir Gazette published the following article under the heading. “MELTON AND THE WAR.” – MEMORIAL TO PTE. BUCKINGHAM, V.C. – At a meeting of the Leicester Board of Guardians on Tuesday night it was decided to open a public subscription with the assistance of the Mayor, with the object of raising £1000 for the provision of four scholarships for Cottage Homes children, to perpetuate the memory and gallantry of the late Private Buckingham, V.C., who was killed in France a few months ago.

Source: Leicestershire War Memorials Project.
Coalville Times article - Friday June 11th, 1915

Leicester's V.C. Hero - Private Buckingham received by the King.

The King, on Friday, conferred the Victoria Cross upon Corporal William Fuller, of the Grenadier Guards, and Private W. Buckingham of the Leicestershire Regiment.

Private Buckingham, a Leicester man, who it will be recalled spent his boyhood at the Countesthorpe Homes, won his V.C. for conspicuous acts of bravery and devotion to duty in rescuing and rendering aid to the wounded whilst exposed to heavy fire, especially at Neuve Chapelle, on the 10th and 12th of March.

Fuller, who formerly worked as a miner and belongs to Mansfield, won his award for conspicuous bravery at Neuve Chapelle on March 12th. Seeing a party of the enemy endeavouring to escape along a communication trench, he ran towards them and killed the leading man with a bomb. The remainder, numbering nearly fifty, finding no means of evading his bombs, surrendered to him. Corporal Fuller was alone at the time.

Coalville Times article - Friday June 11th, 1915

Welcome to Countesthorpe

Great enthusiasm prevailed at Countesthorpe on the occasion of the return of Private Buckingham, V.C., after receiving the Victoria Cross from the King. On Wednesday a telegram informed him that he was to appear before his Majesty on Friday for the decoration so nobly won. Throughout the life at the Homes proceeded as usual, but as evening approached it was evident an ovation was awaiting the hero. He was expected to arrive at the station about 8 o’clock, and accomplished by the band, under the conductorship of Mr Moore, about 120 children, boys and girls of the Homes, formed a guard of honour to greet their “big brother,” as they have come to regard him. As the train drew up to the platform the youngsters were evidently the first to see that their hero had got back, and they gave vent to lusty cheering that must have been heard at the village a mile away, while the band struck up “See the Conquering Hero Comes.”

As Buckingham passed along the platform, accompanied by Mr and Mrs Harrison, and when the simple bronze medal was seen on his breast, as attached by the King, the large crowd which had gathered took up the cheering. Back to the old home, of which he thinks so much, they led the way, followed by the band and the children. There was just a touch of simple humour in the proceedings when one of the children innocently inquired what the King would say if he lost the cross. All at the Homes hope that Buckingham may live long to enjoy the honour so deservedly won.

Coalville Times article - Friday August 6th, 1915

WOUNDED SOLDIERS AT COLEORTON HALL

V.C.’S DRAMATIC MEETING WITH RESCUED MAN

About 400 wounded soldiers in Leicester and county hospitals had an outing on Saturday, arranged by the Leicestershire Automobile Association. It was intended to visit Beaumanor, but the death of Mrs Perry Herrick necessitated a change in the arrangements and Mrs F. Abel-Smith, of Coleorton Hall, placed her grounds at the disposal of the promoters. Over a hundred cars, several of which were driven by ladies, were lent for the occasion and the route taken was via Loughborough and Gracedieu. The villagers of Coleorton gave the wounded soldiers a splendid reception, many displaying flags and cheering the men as they passed, while some ladies threw cigarettes to the Tommies. In the beautiful grounds of Coleorton Hall, associated with Wordsworth, the company spent a most enjoyable afternoon, the weather being beautifully fine.

Whilst the men were recalling their exploits of the past few months a dramatic meeting occurred. Private Buckingham, V.C., the modest and fearless life saver of the 2nd Battalion Leicestershire Regiment, unexpectedly saw for the first time since he performed his deed of bravery at Neuve Chapelle on March 12th, one of the men he rescued under fire. It was his gallantry in regard to this particular man that was so much taken into consideration when it was decided to award the former Countesthorpe Cottage Homes boy the coveted V.C.

The rescued soldier, Corporal W. Tarry, “A” Company, 2nd Leicesters, had for a long time keenly desired to express his deep sense of obligation to the V.C. hero, and to whole heartedly congratulate him on the King’s high recognition of the service rendered, but it had hitherto been impossible for him to do so. Corpl. Tarry was taken from the Base Hospital to Coleorton from the Charnwood Convalescent Home on Saturday, and he had not the slightest idea that Private Buckingham would be included in the company. It was whilst Tarry was making the best use of a pair of crutches – he was shot through the thigh – that the men met. Immediately they recognised each other, but for the moment neither spoke. Their vivid memories had temporarily got the better of them, but when they did speak it was one long stream of mutual congratulation.

Coalville Times article - Friday September 3rd, 1915

That Mr Frank Poxon, son of Mr Poxon, of Meadow Lane, Coalville, an employee of the Whitwick Colliery Co., who is now a Metropolitan policeman, was one of the officers engaged in the recent ‘Brides in the Bath’ case and also had the honour last week of escorting his friend Pte. Buckingham, V.C., around London?

Coalville Times article - Friday April 7th, 1916

SOLDIERS’ PARADE AT LOUGHBOROUGH

The local soldiers of Loughborough on Saturday paraded the town headed by Private Buckingham, V.C., Leicestershire Regiment, in aid of the county wounded soldiers. The procession was led by the bugle band of the V.T.C., and a junior band from Leicester. Collections were taken en route by the Women’s Volunteer Reserve, and the sum of £25 was realised. After the parade the local heroes were entertained to tea at the Town Hall by the Mayor and Mayoress, Mr and Mrs M. W. Coltman.

Coalville Times article - Friday January 10th, 1919

FIVE LEICESTERSHIRE SCHOOL V.C.’S

We are informed by Mr Brockington, the County Director of Education that the V.C. has been won by five soldiers who were, in their boyhood, scholars of the public elementary schools of the county, namely: Lieutenant-Colonel Bent from Ashby-de-la-Zouch; Lieutenant Boulter from Wigston; Pte Buckingham from Countesthorpe; Sergeant Leonard Insley from Albert Village.

Both Colonel Bent and Private Buckingham lost their lives in action, and in the case of the former, the award was posthumous.

Coalville Times article - Friday March 14th, 1919

NEUVE CHAPELLE

LEICESTERS’ FOUR-YEAR OLD FEAT

Monday was the fourth anniversary of the first great offensive of the fighting of 1915 when Sir John French attacked the Huns, making the village of Neuve Chapelle his chief objective. The offensive, which lasted practically three days, was successful, but the price paid was heavy. The British attack was carried out with such gallantry that its very success – which landed many of our troops in untenable positions – was against its full value being utilised. The Huns admitted that the fierceness of the British attack and the terrible bombardment which proceeded it shook them up in a manner they had never previously experienced.

The gallantry of our troops was never exceeded on any battlefield and our own local regiment performed veritable prodigies of valour and suffered heavily. The British losses were 13,000, of which 190 officers and 2,337 men were killed. The 2nd Battalion of the Leicesters – fresh from India – was in the fiercest of the fighting and its losses were very heavy, not a few of these being caused by the German bombardment before the attack developed and while the men were crammed in the trenches waiting for the word to go over. Hand to hand fighting in the enemy’s trenches and desperate bayonet work fell to the lot of the Leicesters, while hacking a way through the barbed wire entanglements, and they were amongst the first to consolidate what their valour had won.

The battle was marked by very many heroic deeds. Private Buckingham won the V.C. and fell afterwards on the Somme. He showed the most devoted courage and rescued many wounded men under very heavy fire. Captain Morgan, M.C., commanded B Company, and although wounded in six places, led his company till he fell from exhaustion. Captain Romilly won the D.S.O. by his bravery in a bombing fight, in the course of which he bowled over several Huns with his revolver. Captain Weir led C Company with much credit and got the Military Cross. Sergt. Ruckledge, Corpl. Oakes, Privates Hill and J. Steeples, and Corpl. Keitley were amongst the recipients of the D.C.M. and many other acts of individual heroism were recorded in the three days fighting.

Research undertaken and submitted by Andy Murby 2/9/2017