William Wilson Allen was an English recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.
Details
He was approx. 35 years old, and a Corporal in the 2nd Bn., 24th Regiment of Foot (later The South Wales Borderers), British Army during the Zulu War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.
On 22 and 23 January 1879 at Rorke's Drift, Natal, South Africa, Corporal Allan and another man (Frederick Hitch) kept communication with the hospital open, despite being severely wounded. Their determined conduct enabled the patients to be withdrawn from the hospital, and when incapacitated by their wounds from fighting, they continued, as soon as their wounds were dressed, to serve out ammunition to their comrades during the night.
Further information
Also referred to as ALLAN, William Wilson. He later achieved the rank of Sergeant.
The medal
His Victoria Cross is displayed at the South Wales Borderers Museum (Brecon, Powys, Wales).
Reference
See also
External links
This page has been migrated from the Victoria Cross Reference with permission.
Last updated: 10-23-2005 23:16:03
