Sergeant Alfred Atkinson 1st Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment 18th February 1900 |
| During the battle of Paardeberg, on February 18, 1900, Sergeant Atkinson exposed himself to the heavy fire of the enemy to procure and carry water to the wounded. Seven times he repeated this devoted act, and at the last attempt he was shot through the head, dying a few days after. In a letter from the Adjutant of his battalion he is reported as having been a most exemplary soldier and excellent non-commissioned officer. Born at Armley, Leeds. He rejoined the Colours from the Reserve at the call of duty in October, 1899, and was entitled to the Queen's medal with clasps for Kimberley (Relief) and. Paardeberg, where he fell. He was the son of Farrier-Major James Atkinson, " H " Battery, 4th Brigade Royal Artillery (who is stated to have been one of the Party who captured the original cannon from which the Victoria Cross is now cast), and in accordance with the regulation of August 1902, his Cross is now in the possession of his father.' |