Maurice Buckley, Australian sergeant (b. 1891)

Maurice Vincent Buckley (born 13 April 1891 – died 27 January 1921) was an exceptionally brave Australian soldier who distinguished himself during the First World War, earning the most prestigious military decoration available: the Victoria Cross. Notably, he served under the pseudonym Gerald Sexton.

The Victoria Cross (VC) stands as the highest award for gallantry "in the face of the enemy" that can be bestowed upon members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces. It symbolizes the utmost courage, self-sacrifice, and devotion to duty.

The Enigmatic Alias: Gerald Sexton

Born in Upper Maffra, Victoria, Australia, Maurice Vincent Buckley enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in 1915, adopting the alias Gerald Sexton. The precise reasons behind his use of a pseudonym remain a subject of historical interpretation, but it was not uncommon for individuals during that era to enlist under assumed names. Such practices often served to circumvent age restrictions, avoid detection following previous military records, or to address various personal or legal circumstances. Despite the secrecy surrounding his true identity during his service, his actions spoke volumes about his character and commitment.

An Act of Supreme Gallantry: The Victoria Cross Citation

Private Maurice Buckley’s extraordinary courage was recognized for his actions on 18 September 1918, during the Allied advance near Le Verguier, France, as part of the 13th Battalion, Australian Imperial Force. When his company's advance was critically halted by relentless fire from a well-positioned enemy machine-gun post, Buckley, without hesitation or regard for his own safety, launched a single-handed charge. He bravely confronted the machine-gun crew, swiftly neutralizing the threat and capturing six German prisoners. Later, observing another formidable machine gun unleashing devastating fire upon his platoon, he once again advanced alone under intense enemy observation, effectively silencing the weapon and capturing additional prisoners. His exceptional initiative, sheer bravery, and unwavering determination were pivotal in breaking the enemy's resistance, enabling his unit's advance, and undoubtedly saving numerous lives.

The Victoria Cross: A Symbol of Ultimate Bravery

Instituted by Queen Victoria in 1856, the Victoria Cross is the most revered military decoration of the Commonwealth. It is awarded for "most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy." The medal itself holds unique historical significance: it is cast from the bronze of Russian cannons captured during the Crimean War. Its simple yet powerful design features a Maltese Cross with a lion statant guardant on the royal crown, adorned with a scroll inscribed "FOR BRAVERY." This rare and highly coveted award underscores acts of truly outstanding and selfless courage under the most perilous conditions.

Legacy and Post-War Life

After the cessation of hostilities, Maurice Buckley returned to Australia, much like countless other veterans grappling with the profound challenges of readapting to civilian life. Sadly, he passed away prematurely in 1921. His legacy, however, remains firmly etched in Australia’s military history as one of its most distinguished heroes, a poignant testament to the extraordinary sacrifices made by soldiers during the Great War.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maurice Vincent Buckley VC

Who was Maurice Vincent Buckley?
Maurice Vincent Buckley was an Australian soldier who earned the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry, for his exceptional bravery during the First World War. He is also known for serving under the pseudonym Gerald Sexton.
Why did Maurice Buckley use the pseudonym Gerald Sexton?
The exact reasons are not definitively known, but it was a practice among soldiers during that era to enlist under assumed names, often to circumvent age restrictions, avoid past military or legal issues, or for personal reasons.
What specific actions earned him the Victoria Cross?
On 18 September 1918, near Le Verguier, France, Private Buckley single-handedly charged and neutralized multiple enemy machine-gun posts under heavy fire, capturing numerous prisoners and significantly aiding his unit's advance.
What is the Victoria Cross (VC)?
The Victoria Cross is the highest military decoration awarded for "most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy" to members of British and Commonwealth forces. It was instituted in 1856.