Corporal Edward Dwyer, VC (25 November 1895 – 3 September 1916) was a British Army soldier and an English recipient of the Victoria Cross (VC), the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

Early life

Dwyer was born in Fulham, London, on 25 November 1895. His forename, as it appears on the birth index, 1901 and 1911 censuses is Edwin. In 1901 the family lived at 40 Walham Avenue, Fulham, close to Darlan Road, off Fulham Road. At the time of the 1911 census, he was employed as a Grocer's shop assistant.

On 2 July 1912 he enlisted under Special Reserve terms of service of six years, to complete six months of mandatory training, then to transfer to the Reserves, albeit on call until 1 July 1918. He was released from this contractual obligation, in order to enlist as a regular. On 6 September 1912, he enlisted under Regular terms of service of 12 years. His declared age upon enlistment suggested he was born on 25 August 1894, and over 18. versus 12d for a Private in a line infantry regiment aged 18 years and over.

First World War

thumb|left|Dwyer's gravestone at the Flatiron Copse Cemetery

On 16 August 1914, the 1st Battalion disembarked at Le Havre, Dwyer was present.

Dwyer was also awarded the Cross of St. George (Russia) decoration. His brother Charles died in Salonika in 1917.

His VC is displayed at the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment (Queens and Royal Hampshires) Museum located in Dover Castle, Kent.

References

Further reading

  • Regimental website
  • Oh! It's A Lovely War CD liner notes at CD41