Remembrance - The Yorkshire Regiment, First World War 2nd Lieutenant Donald Simpson BELL, VC Close window to return to main page

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2nd Lieutenant Donald Simpson BELL, VC

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2nd Lieutenant Donald Simpson BELL, VC.

9th Battalion Yorkshire Regiment. Former professional football player. Son of Smith and Annie Bell, of Western Flats, Queen's Rd., Harrogate; husband of Rhoda Bell, of Wilmslow, Cheshire. Killed 10 July 1916. Aged 25.
Buried GORDON DUMP CEMETERY.

An extract from "The London Gazette," No. 29740, dated 8th Sept., 1916, records the following:-
"For most conspicuous bravery. During an attack a very heavy enfilade fire was opened on the attacking company by a hostile machine gun. 2nd Lt. Bell immediately, and on his own initiative, crept up a communication trench and then, followed by Corpl. Colwill and Pte. Batey, rushed across the open under very heavy fire and attacked the machine gun, shooting the firer with his revolver, and destroying gun and personnel with bombs. This very brave act saved many lives and ensured the success of the attack. Five days later this very gallant officer lost his life performing a very similar act of bravery."