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.'
|