10: Twice a Hero: Noel Godfrey Chavasse VC and Bar

Noel Godfrey Chavasse: Twice a Hero

In this episode of Militia Historia, we explore the extraordinary life and heroic actions of Captain Noel Godfrey Chavasse, the only British serviceman to be awarded the Victoria Cross twice during World War I.

Episode Highlights:

1. Early Life and Education: 

   - Born in 1884 as one of twin boys

   - Upbringing in a religious family, son of the Bishop of Liverpool

   - Education at Liverpool College and Oxford University

2. Athletic Achievements:

   - Excelled in athletics at Oxford

   - Represented Great Britain in the 400 meters at the 1908 London Olympics

3. Medical Career:

   - Trained as a doctor at Oxford

   - Worked at the Southern Hospital in Liverpool before the war

4. World War I Service:

   - Joined the Royal Army Medical Corps in 1913

   - Deployed to France with the 10th Battalion, King's (Liverpool Regiment) in 1915

5. First Victoria Cross:

   - Awarded for actions during the Battle of Guillemont, September 1916

   - Saved the lives of at least 20 severely wounded men under heavy fire

6. Second Victoria Cross:

   - Earned during the Third Battle of Ypres (Passchendaele), July-August 1917

   - Continued to treat and rescue wounded soldiers despite being severely injured himself

7. Ultimate Sacrifice:

   - Died of wounds on August 4, 1917, at the age of 32

   - His second Victoria Cross was awarded posthumously

8. Legacy:

   - Impact on military medicine and the concept of duty

   - Memorials and honours, including a statue in Liverpool

This episode provides a look into Chavasse's life, exploring how his background, education, and personal convictions shaped his extraordinary acts of bravery. We examine the circumstances of his two Victoria Cross awards, offering listeners a glimpse into the horrors of World War I and the exceptional courage displayed by this remarkable man.

Join us as we unravel the story of Noel Godfrey Chavasse, a true hero whose selfless dedication to saving lives amid unimaginable carnage continues to inspire more than a century later.

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