Edward Lawson, English soldier, Victoria Cross recipient (d. 1955)

Edward Lawson VC, born on 11 April 1873 and passing away on 2 July 1955, was an exemplary English soldier whose extraordinary courage earned him the Victoria Cross. This esteemed award stands as the highest and most prestigious decoration for gallantry that can be bestowed upon members of the British and Commonwealth forces, reserved for acts of extreme bravery displayed "in the face of the enemy."

A Defining Act of Courage: The Dargai Heights Incident

Lawson's remarkable act of heroism unfolded during the demanding Tirah Campaign, a significant military engagement fought between 1897 and 1898 on the North-West Frontier of British India. This challenging conflict saw British and Indian forces confronting fierce resistance from local tribes amidst treacherous mountainous terrain. At the time, Edward Lawson was serving as a Private with the distinguished 1st Battalion, The Gordon Highlanders, a regiment renowned for its formidable fighting spirit and proud Scottish heritage within the British Army.

It was amidst the brutal fighting for the strategic Dargai Heights on 20 October 1897 that Private Lawson distinguished himself with an act of profound selflessness. The official citation eloquently describes the scene: under a relentless hail of enemy fire, he courageously moved to Lieutenant K. Dingwall of the Gordon Highlanders, who lay severely wounded and immobilized. With incredible resolve, and despite the extreme danger, Lawson carried his officer to safety. But his heroism did not end there; displaying an unwavering disregard for his own well-being, he returned to the perilous battlefield to rescue Private McMillan. During this second act of selfless bravery, Private Lawson himself was struck and wounded in two separate places, a testament to the immense personal risk he undertook to save his comrades.

A Life of Service Beyond Dargai

Private Lawson's dedication to service continued beyond this heroic act; he remained with The Gordon Highlanders until 1902, demonstrating his enduring commitment to his regiment. Later, his sense of duty saw him return to military life, serving as a Sergeant in the Northern Cyclist Battalion. This period of service spanned from before the outbreak of the First World War and continued throughout the tumultuous years of the conflict, illustrating a sustained commitment to his country across different eras and roles.

Honouring a Hero: Memorials and Legacy

Today, Edward Lawson's original Victoria Cross, a tangible symbol of his extraordinary bravery, is proudly displayed for public viewing at the Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen, Scotland. This allows visitors to connect directly with the legacy of a man whose courage exemplifies the values of the regiment.

Newcastle upon Tyne, the city he called home later in life, also proudly honours Edward Lawson with two distinct memorials. One poignant tribute is a dedicated bench situated in Old Eldon Square, thoughtfully placed near the city's prominent war memorial. This invites quiet reflection on his legacy and the sacrifices made by many. The second, a broader and equally significant tribute, stands outside the Discovery Museum in the city's vibrant west end. This memorial commemorates all of Newcastle's brave sons who received the Victoria Cross, with Lawson prominently among them, ensuring his story remains an integral part of the city's rich military heritage.

Later Life in Newcastle

In the years following the Great War, Edward Lawson settled into civilian life with his family. He resided in Parson's Avenue, located in the Walker area of Newcastle upon Tyne. This move followed an earlier residence in the Heaton district of the city, rooting him deeply within the community of Newcastle upon Tyne, where he spent his later years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Edward Lawson VC?
Edward Lawson was an English soldier, born in 1873, who was awarded the Victoria Cross for exceptional gallantry during the Tirah Campaign in 1897. He passed away in 1955.
What is the Victoria Cross?
The Victoria Cross (VC) is the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry "in the face of the enemy" that can be awarded to members of the British and Commonwealth forces.
When and where did Edward Lawson earn his Victoria Cross?
He earned his Victoria Cross on 20 October 1897, during the attack on the Dargai Heights, part of the Tirah Campaign on India's North-West Frontier.
What specific act of bravery earned him the VC?
Under heavy enemy fire, Private Lawson carried Lieutenant K. Dingwall, who was wounded and unable to move, to safety. He then returned to the battlefield to bring in Private McMillan, receiving two wounds himself during this second rescue.
Did Edward Lawson serve in any other conflicts?
Yes, he continued to serve with the Gordon Highlanders until 1902 and later served as a Sergeant in the Northern Cyclist Battalion before and during the First World War.
Where can I see Edward Lawson's Victoria Cross?
His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen, Scotland.
Are there any memorials to Edward Lawson?
Yes, there are two memorials to him in Newcastle upon Tyne: a dedicated bench in Old Eldon Square and a memorial to all of Newcastle's Victoria Cross recipients outside the Discovery Museum.