Gordon Muriel Flowerdew Martin
- Born:
- October 14, 1885, Billingford, Norfolk, England
- Died:
- August 20, 1918, Amiens, France (killed in action)
- Nationality:
- Canadian (British subject at birth)
- Profession(s):
- Soldier, Farmer
Early Life and Education
- Emigrated to Canada with his family in 1903, settling near Harris, Saskatchewan.
- Engaged in farming prior to the outbreak of World War I.
Career and Major Achievements
- Enlisted in the 31st Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) in March 1915.
- Served in France and Belgium during World War I.
- Transferred to Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians), a cavalry regiment.
- Awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously for his actions on March 30, 1918, near Moreuil Wood, France. He led a squadron in a successful charge against German machine gun positions, enabling the advance of Canadian infantry. He continued to fight despite severe wounds.
Notable Works
- His Victoria Cross citation details his courageous leadership and self-sacrifice during the action at Moreuil Wood. The citation is considered a significant record of his bravery.
Legacy and Impact
Gordon Muriel Flowerdew Martin's exceptional bravery and leadership, culminating in his Victoria Cross, have cemented his place as a Canadian war hero. His sacrifice is commemorated in memorials and histories of the First World War. The details contained in a 'gordon muriel flowerdew biography of martin' detail the scope of his actions.
Awards and Decorations
| Award | Details |
|---|---|
| Victoria Cross | Awarded posthumously for most conspicuous bravery, daring, and self-sacrifice during the attack at Moreuil Wood on March 30, 1918. |
| 1914-15 Star | Awarded for service in a theatre of war between August 5, 1914, and December 31, 1915. |
| British War Medal | Awarded to personnel who had served in a theatre of war or rendered approved service between August 5, 1914, and November 11, 1918. |
| Victory Medal | Awarded to personnel who had served in a theatre of war. |