#BATTALION11: From the Prairies to Valour - Arthur Herbert Lindsay Richardson

Battalion, Atten-tion! Today, I call on you to join me in a solemn march down memory lane as part of our #BATTALION11 project. Today, we stand shoulder to shoulder, honouring the gallantry of Sergeant Arthur Herbert Lindsay Richardson. This is not just a tale of valour but a saga written in the blood and sweat of a soldier whose actions etch an indelible mark on the annals of our proud military history.

Born on the shores of Southport, England, in 1873, Richardson crossed oceans and continents before donning the scarlet tunic of the North West Mounted Police in Canada. But it was the harsh veldt of South Africa in 1899 that called him to higher honour, where he joined the ranks of Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians).

The battle at Wolve Spruit, July 5, 1900, saw our brother-in-arms perform an act of courage so extraordinary, it could only be described as the essence of the Victoria Cross he was rightly awarded. Under a barrage that would break many a man, he rode through the enemy's breath to within 300 meters to rescue a fallen comrade—a deed that speaks louder than any medal ever could.

His service continued with honour upon his return to the Mounted Police after the war, culminating in the rank of sergeant-major. However, by 1907, health challenges led him to retire and live quietly in Liverpool, England. His name unexpectedly resurfaced when another Arthur Richardson passed himself off as the VC recipient, garnering military honours until his death. The real Arthur Richardson, VC, would only find recognition after participating, unrecognized, in his impersonator's funeral procession.

Sergeant Richardson's life, marked by bravery and later obscured by a bizarre twist of fate, serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of a soldier's journey. His later years, away from the limelight until fate's ironic intervention, speak to the modesty and resilience of a true soldier.

To read more about Arthur Herbert Lindsay Richardson and his story, please visit the following link. (https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/medals/victoria-cross-recipients/arthur-herbert-lindsay-richardson.html)

Lest we forget, RSM Riggs.

#Battalion11 #ValourPersonified #VictoriaCross #MilitaryHistory #LestWeForget