Charles Upham VC - Two Victoria Crosses

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Charles Upham VC, was the last man to be awarded the Victoria Cross twice.
He is only one of three men every to have achieved that feat and the only one of those men to have actually been a combat soldier.
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Other Double Victoria Cross Recipients:
Arthur Martin-Leake VC & bar
• The First Man To Be Aw...
Noel Chavasse VC & bar
• Captain Noel Chavasse ...
Born in Christchurch, New Zealand in 1908, Upham left a career in farming to enlist at the outbreak of the Second World War (WW2).
Joining the 20th battalion of the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force, as a private, he was sent initially to Egypt before heading to the war in Greece.
Whilst in Egypt he was commissioned as an officer.
Following the Allied defeat in Greece, Upham was part of the 18,000 force sent to the island of Crete.
On the 20th May 1941, German Fairborn troops landed on the island and a fierce two-week battled ensued.
It was during this battle that Charles Upham was recommended for his first Victoria Cross.
One of the minority of Allied troops to be evacuated from Crete, Upham was promoted to the rank of Captain and posted back to Egypt.
There the New Zealand Expeditionary Force formed part of the British 8th Army, facing Erwin Rommel’s Afrika Corps in the deserts of western Egypt.
During the first battle of El Alamein, Captain Upham performed a series of gallant actions which earned him a second Victoria Cross (or more correctly a Bar to his original Victoria Cross).
Injured in the arm and legs, he was captured and taken to a POW camp in Italy.
There he embarked on a series of escape attempts which so infuriated the Germans that he was sent to the most secure, and infamous, POW camp at Colditz Castle in Germany.
Upon liberation in 1945, Upham was sent to England, where he was ac tally presented with his VC by King George VI and also met up with his New Zealand fiancé, Molly, who was serving as a nurse.
They were married in Hampshire.
On his return to New Zealand, Charles Upham was treated to a heros reception.
However, he shunned the publicity and for the rest of his life claimed that others had done as much as him, but they just hand’t received the recognition.
He returned to farming, about 90 miles north of Christchurch and finally retired in the early 1990’s.
Charles Upham VC & bar, died in 1994.
He is the last man to have been awarded 2 Victoria Crosses.
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Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:32 Early Life
1:10 WW2 / 2NZEF
3:07 1st Victoria Cross
5:44 The Desert War
7:07 2nd VC
8:21 POW
10:49 Colditz Castle
12:25 Returning Home
14:25 The History Chap
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My name is Chris Green and I love to share stories from British history. Not just because they are interesting but because, good or bad, they have shaped the world we live in today.
History should not be stuffy or a long list of dates or kings & queens.
So rather than lectures or RU-vid animations, I tell stories that bring the past to life.
My aim is to be chat as if I were having a coffee or meal with you. Jean in Maryland, USA recently wrote: "Chris, is the history teacher I wish I had at school!"
Just for the record, I do have a history degree in Medieval & Modern history from the University of Birmingham.
Disclaimer: All opinions and comments expressed in the 'Comments' section do not reflect the opinions of Chris Green Communication Ltd t/a The History Chap. All opinions and comments should contribute to the dialogue. Chris Green Communication Ltd does not condone written attacks, insults, racism, sexism, extremism, violence or otherwise questionable comments or material in the 'Comments' section, and reserves the right to delete any comment violating this rule or to block any poster from the channel.

Опубликовано:

9 июл 2024

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Комментарии : 723

@careyclements5400 9 месяцев назад

I had great pleasure to interview both Charles Upham VC and Bar and Jack Hinton VC, separately during an army function in Dunedin in 1992. I have still got the interviews on cassette and in addition got their autographs and also posed with them over a photo. Even though I was warned that Upham was a shy man, he was actually very open during the interview, probably helped by the fact that he already had a couple of whiskeys beforehand and because I was also a young reserve soldier at the time, so he appreciated that I was not looking for anything from a sensation point of view. More than 30 years later, I still regard these two interviews as two major highlights of my life to date.

@TheHistoryChap 9 месяцев назад

Thanks for sharing

@hullster9970 7 месяцев назад

From me, an Englishman, this was a nice tribute to him. One VC is incredible, but to have two is jaw dropping. I am so proud to call New Zealand as our allies

@TheHistoryChap 6 месяцев назад

Thanks so much for watching my video and for taking the time to comment

@harrycurrie9664 4 месяца назад

He was actually nominated for 3.

@kiwifruit27 Год назад

As a proud kiwi I really appreciate you telling his story in its entirety, a truly remarkable man

@russbarker2727 Год назад

As an ex-pat Pom, I am also proud to now be a Kiwi. Incidentally, I went to the same school as Cpt Noel Chavasse VC and bar, Magdalen College School, Oxford,

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Glad you enjoyed it.

@jamescooper-hope6930 Год назад

Count Dankula has a great and detailed expose on Capt Upham on his channel. Definitely worth a listen.

@garymoore2535 Год назад

The Kiwi's are remarkable people who punch way above their weight ! ❤ 🇬🇧🇳🇿

@joemuir2575 Год назад

Bring back men like that, what a hero

@davidarchibald50 Год назад

In Crete, the bullet that struck his foot was spent, and lodged under his skin. Charlie carried on, until three days later he had a moment, and with his bayonet dug it out. As a kid growing up in New Zealand in the 50s and 60s, we all read the book about him. He was someone we held as someone to live up to. Of course, you never could. They are rare people, these heroes.

@markpullar3993 Год назад

My grandmother gave me the book to read as a 20 year old laying in a hospital bed with a badly broken leg. I still have the book

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Indeed they are rare. Thanks for sharing.

@spudpud-T67 Год назад

@@markpullar3993 The book " Mark of the lion" by Kenneth Stanford.

@chopstick266 Год назад

Didn't they mess up at meleme and thats why crete was lost?

@tjgelliott Год назад

@@chopstick266 they put a possibly shell shocked WW1 vet in charge of a key position. He lost his nerve and said he couldn't hold. The entire thing hinged on that one decision.

@johnallen3250 Год назад

I was a choirboy about 10 when I meet Captain Upham . And asked for his autograph which he gave me on the Anzac Day service sheet. I asked him how he became a hero and he said I am not a hero the priest is . I then became an alter boy to the priest after I left the Choir sadly the priest got killed by a bus while ridding his bike on Papanui Rd here in Christchurch. At his funeral I found out he administered last rights to the soldiers at the battle of Alamaine while under enemy fire and then I understood what Captain Upham had said to me when I got his Autograph in his eyes being under enemy fire un armed in his eyes the priest was his hero. The man was humble and a credit to his Generation and the Farm was near Mt Parnasas

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thank you so much for sharing your memories

@paulmcewen Год назад

I have his autobiography The Mark Of The Lion sighed by Him about 1964 it was Anzac Day at Blackball and him and Dave Kirk who was an old Blackball boy whom Upham said was the finest fighting soldier he’d ever served with they came out of the hotel 3, sheets to the wind and I asked him if he would sigh my fathers copy of his book which he did and I still have that book today.

@davidgray3321 10 месяцев назад

This man is a great credit to New Zealand, you can tell from his photographs that he was extremely formidable and fit. A exceptional man indeed. Thank you New Zealand .

@TheHistoryChap 9 месяцев назад

Thank you for sharing your thoughts

@Hartley_Hare Год назад

I simply can't quite understand how this man can have been so unbelievably brave and in not just one but a series of engagements over a sustained period. This country has been phenomenally lucky to have been able to call on men like this.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Nice comment

@Hartley_Hare Год назад

@@TheHistoryChap It reminds me of Group Captain Cheshire's VC. Awarded not for a single moment of courage, but for sustained bravery carried out with a clear head. I'm such an old softie that reading about things like this makes me feel weepy, and very grateful. And huge respect to the Kiwis, Aussies and all the others who gave their sons so selflessly. That's quite something.

@samrodian919 Год назад

@@Hartley_Hare hear hear! I too felt teary listening to Chris tell of Captain Upham's sheer bloody mindedness and bravery. What a man and what an inspiration to all Kiwi's and the rest of mankind.

@kailohpengio7730 Год назад

It got something to do with their culture?

@markpullar3993 Год назад

You should read the book " Mark of the lion" by Kenneth Stanford. He was probably lucky to have being captured in North Africa otherwise it's hard to see how he would have survived the Italian campaign

@user-vv6sy2ox4q 8 месяцев назад

As a New Zealand Infanteer I meet Charles Upham twice, I also have his signature on a pamphlet to a rugby match that I played in named in his honour. I also have a photograph of myself and CPT Upham while at an anniversary of the battle of Minqar Qaim.

@TheHistoryChap 8 месяцев назад

Wow, those are two fantastic Momentos of a great man. Thanks for sharing.

@user-yr4mo3iz4d 2 месяца назад

NZ do not use CPT its CAPT. so lies.

@juleshorse9056 8 месяцев назад

I cannot find words sufficient to express my admiration for Charles Upham - a legend.

@TheHistoryChap 8 месяцев назад

Thanks so much for taking the time to comment

@michaelhayden5264 9 месяцев назад

Apparently when King George VI was asked to sign the instrument awarding the second VC he specifically asked the general and senior public servant if this second VC was warrented. As I understand the general said words to the effect that he should have received at one additional medals (so effectively 3 VCs). On return to NZ he continued to be a humble man, refusing the offer of the nation buying or presenting with a farm. He of course refused all requests to stand for the NZ Parliament. His one " vice" (if you can call it that) he refused to travel in or allow any vehicle made in Germany on to his property. When he dies (1994?) ALL (yes the whole nation) New Zealand stopped for two minutes.

@TheHistoryChap 9 месяцев назад

What an amazing man thanks for sharing that story

@tonylove4800 4 дня назад

Also turned down a knighthood.

@atfjacknz Год назад

As a Kiwi, I appreciate you posting the story of one of the greatest Kiwis, and on Anzac day (well, the day after for us, but for you the 25th). We will remember them.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching

@sebatianalvarado7171 Год назад

LEST WE FORGET ...

@robertmiller2173 Год назад

My father was in the famous 20th Battalion and apart of the 1st Echelon of the 2nd NZEF which fought in Greece, Crete, North Africa. In North Africa he was wounded at battle near Sedi Rezegh in Operation Crusader. Rommel himself had visited the this Desert Hospital Tent and and once Germans took over the pain relief and the dressing of the wounds improved dramatically. He was lucky to escape with 18 other New Zealanders including Major General Howard Kippenberger. When he came back to NZ to convalesce. After my fathers wound healed he went back to war as a Tank Commander of a M4 Sherman, right through Italy up to Trieste. He fell in love with his Mk 4 Sherman and its mighty Ford GAA V8. After the war the 20th battalion had its Annual Reunions. Being a South Island Pakeha Battalion most of it reunions were held in Christchurch but they had ones in Southland and Otago as well. Anyway my mum and dad used to catch up with the Uphams at least once a year, and they went back to Crete in 1981 for the 40th Anniversary of the Battle. They also were hosted by the Fallschirmjager veterans in Munich and had a great time! My dad said that the "Boys" kept a careful eye on Charlie as he was still the Warrior! I learnt so much more about the war when I was a Student at the University of Otago. in the Holidays I would go back home to the Farm and get work either fencing, or working at the Freezing works and in the Weekends I would play barmen to any of Dad's old mates from the 20th Battalion, so I would just sit a listen and wait until their whiskey or gin glass needed a top up! Here's to Charlie and Molly and Kay and Rex Bless you, I miss you!

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

What a wonderful story. Thank you so much for taking the time to share

@harrycurrie9664 4 месяца назад

Did Charles attend the Munich reunion ? I know he would not allow anything German on or near his farm ...VW's included.

@robdavidson4945 Год назад

I'm an American son of a Scots immigrant. The men of my Scots family were in mostly Highland Regiments. A couple were at the Somme including my Grandfather another at Galipoli. They were all front line Infantry. They all came home alive which was a miracle at that time. Dad came to the USA after service in the Seaforth Highlanders. I read the book about Charles Upham when I was in 7th grade back in the late 60's. He was one of my heroes.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thank for taking the time to share.

@JJ-of1ir 8 месяцев назад

I am so glad you told us this brave man's story. New Zealand must be very proud of him and England very proud and grateful that he and other such men stood side by side with us in our time of great need.

@TheHistoryChap 8 месяцев назад

Nice words. Thanks for taking the time to share.

@cynthiaalver Год назад

If Hollywood put out a film with all his doings no one would believe it. Huge respect and gratitude for this courageous, honorable man.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for taking the time to post.

@asterixdogmatix1073 Год назад

A movie was planned in 2007 pre GFC. With Karl Urban to play lead (despite the height difference!), but funding disappeared.

@kvman6410 Год назад

If he were American like Audie Murphy he would have had his own movie franchise

@paullane8709 10 месяцев назад

They had Audie Murphy. Another brave man.

@copferthat 10 месяцев назад

When I was a young boy in the 50's talk of the loyalty of NZ Australia and Canada used to make my mother cry and I wondered why. When you grow up you learn why she was so proud and humbled by them.

@TheHistoryChap 9 месяцев назад

Thank you so much for sharing

@baronoflivonia.3512 11 месяцев назад

Amazing story about a truly Amazing Man. As a baby boomer, these guys were my Hero's. In school late 60's-early 70's I devoured every library book I could on British, Commonwealth and US battles and the men that fought them. Captain Upham was a remarkable man from the Greatest Generation of my Life. Thank You for spreading this story of this Man's Courage.

@TheHistoryChap 10 месяцев назад

Thank you for watching. I’m glad you enjoyed my video.

@jamesnbd57 Год назад

Perfect for Anzac Day, thank you

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure.

@peterjones7673 Год назад

What a trio of heroic gentlemen who all share one thing total modesty in their actions. Thank you so much for the stories of these true heroes

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Glad you enjoyed them.

@AndrewCastlemaine Год назад

A very moving and inspiring tale of one of our finest Kiwi cousins (I'm an Aussie)

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for posting.

@bennichols1113 Год назад

ANZAC brother.

@Chiller01 Год назад

Fascinating story about an extraordinary Kiwi.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Glad you enjoyed it.

@davidferry548 Год назад

The crazy part is that there were many in high places who believed he should have have been awarded a second bar to his VC. This was a remarkable man

@bevanfletcher6563 Год назад

It was said that he should have received one for his actions during the New Zealand Division breakout from Minqar Qaim. During the action for which he was awarded his 2nd VC he was actually wounded on 4 occasions.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for sharing.

@catweaselnz Год назад

Pretty sure that Kippenberger said he deserved five or six but the higher ups said don't be ridiculous and two will have to do. The book on him is The Mark Of A Lion and is a fantastic read. The nerve of the man!

@bevanfletcher6563 Год назад

@@catweaselnz When Upham wad put forward for a 2nd VC King GeorgeVI asked General Kippenberger if he really deserved a 2nd, Kippenberger's reply was that he deserved 2 more, as he believed that Upham deserved another for his actions during the breakout from Minqar Qaim.

@davidferry548 Год назад

@@catweaselnz yes I've read it

@saadkhan1128 Год назад

They wrote the tales of valor in thier own blood. The common wealth troops were the bravest men, of the bravest generation.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for posting those touching words.

@TheRobby1971 Год назад

Agree completely, Churchill was fond of 'saying why won't they fight' of British Troops. (The answer being one of trust and memory of the catastrophic death toll in WW1) All to often the ANZACS were used to kick the door in. The best of the best.

@sebatianalvarado7171 Год назад

@@TheRobby1971 our SAS is still one of best Special Forces in the world ... average kiwi very all rounded .. we all been bush , in water , on boats m in snow , shooting , hunting , etc ... all no mater where you are these things are there to do or about 1/2 hrs away .. older generations anyway ...

@barryallison-ut2ux Год назад

@@TheRobby1971 ANZACs must be in capitals mate !

@TheRobby1971 Год назад

@@barryallison-ut2ux thanks, edited.

@hamishrobson4385 Год назад

Wow, this New Zealand officer displayed true leadership qualities and a 'can do' attitude. Very inspirational.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for watching.

@stonefree67 Год назад

What an amazing story! And what amazingly captivating storytelling as usual! Can almost feel the smell of gunpowder in my livingroom! Thanks,Chris!

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My opleasure. Glad you enjoyed.

@harryshriver6223 8 месяцев назад

What an amazing journey of true hero, truly humbled and respectful 🙏 I was truly impressed with his determination and his accuracy with grenades! RIP Mr. Upham and kudos to you, amigo for bringing such an amazing story to life.

@TheHistoryChap 8 месяцев назад

And woe betide you, if you turned up on his farm, driving a German car!

@albertanderson6770 11 месяцев назад

Charles Upham was a modest and humble man he often talked about others first before he talked about himself which he very really did. He always maintained others did more than him and didnt like to be in the limelight when the attention was on him.

@looseunit1615 Год назад

As an ex New Zealand soldier I remember talking about Captain Upham's military achievements. He was one tough Kiwi.

@mattyallen3396 Год назад

Its strange how the regular soldiers give the TF soldiers shit...... Its my understanding that most of our medals were won by TF Soldiers

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for sharing.

@davidendsor219 Год назад

Excellent story, and its good to see he had a long and happy life that he had clearly earned.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Nice words. Thanks for posting.

@thedisabledwelshman9266 Год назад

@@TheHistoryChap keep them coming chris.

@bill_heywood Год назад

Fascinating. 2 VCs and a Colditz old boy, what a man

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Don't make many like him.

@misssis1935 Год назад

What a legend of a man! Also a very apt story for ANZAC Day too.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

I'm glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching & posting.

@allanburt5250 Год назад

What a story..... we use words like hero and inspiration too often for too little these days. This incredible man and his like show what it really means.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for watching

@philstanton231 Год назад

There is a nice statue to Charlie Upham on the main road in Amberly township just north of Christchurch - agree, thanks for telling his, as as well as the others, heroic stories - cheers mate

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed.

@michaelevans7247 Год назад

Good Morning Chris Hope you are well Captain Bam Limbu VC died on 22 April 2023 Another amazing Story from a very Brave Man .

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Michael, thanks for that timely reminder. I will add him to my list for the future.

@derisly Год назад

I had the pleasure of meeting Charlie. He sat down and told us teenagers war stories at the local country xmas bbq. Great memory. Molly was also a really great person. Their farm was in Claverley just south of the Conway river .

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Wow, what an incredible memory. Thanks for sharing.

@alexdieudonne1924 Год назад

As a New Zealander, well researched his farm is just up the road and locals still remember him. Well done history chap !.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for watching

@nigelhamilton815 Год назад

We are so fortunate to have such steadfast allies. Salute to you all on Anzac day and thank you.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Nice words.

@nigelhamilton815 Год назад

@@TheHistoryChap sincerely meant.

@WNH3 Год назад

Good call on ANZAC Day. I can only think Chris planned that.

@DonQuixote547 Год назад

What an incredible man. They don't make them like this anymore.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for watching.

@rob5944 Год назад

This fantastic story exceeded my expectations. What a character, the stuff of boys own. He certainly deserved not only his medals, but a long and happy marriage! I'm glad he did.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Glad you enjoyed it.

@sirwalterkissmecrack Год назад

I never tire of hearing his story. Thanks.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure.

@fredazcarate4818 Год назад

Here is the braves of Common Wealth soldiers. A true mans man in every sense of the word. I am deeply touched by his humility and simple valour . Sir thank you for sharing the tale of this galant individual. I hope you continue on producing brilliant mini documentaries. Once again thank you and God bless Sir.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure. Thanks for watching

@benrobertson7855 Год назад

Great,especially as it was Anzac Day yesterday( 25 th) thanks.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure

@warrenmilford6848 Год назад

There were also Australian troops who fought in Crete along with the British, Greek and New Zealand troops you mentioned at 2-51.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for sharing.

@harrycurrie9664 4 месяца назад

Yes I read the attack to take the airfield at Maleme was meant to start at 06:30 but was eventually called off because the Australian contingent of the attack did not arrive until 08:30 ... full daylight and no hope of surprise.

@andrewsteele7663 Год назад

Good morning, Chris I have heard Charles story a couple times. But yours had me on the edge of my office chair and coffee going cold. What a brilliant man. I think we could do with a lot more like him to sign up right now. As always, brilliantly told, I had goose bumps at the end. Cheers

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Very kind of you. Thanks for watching.

@keithlloyd4254 Год назад

What a fine man he was &, like other men of his stamp, a humble & modest one. He is a fine example for any boy to follow though winning 2 V.C.s might be difficult. We all owe the men & women of those days a huge debt for their selflessness & self sacrifice. My father was a timberfaller - felling trees- so in a reserved occupation & would never be called up, however, he enlisted in the Grenadier Guards & later the Special Service Brigade - army commandos. He took part in Operation Chariot, the raid on St. Nazaire, the greatest raid of all. A man of 22-23 with everything to live for was ready to die if necessary to attack the Nazis. The commandos were gathered together & told by Mountbatten that, given the suicidal nature of the operation, any man could withdraw without any stain on their character or honour. There were 300 plus men there, of that number not a man withdrew. With soldiers like Charles Upham & the rest, how could we lose?

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Keith, thanks for taking the time to post such a thoughtful comment.

@alanle1471 Год назад

An amazing person. Incredible soldier. He deserved so much more credit than he received.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for watching.

@francoistombe Год назад

In 1955 young Queen Elizabeth visited New Zealand. There was a reception where a bunch of boring politicians and VIPs were to hang out with her Majesty. Upham was added to the list to pack in some colour. As it turned out she and he spent a lot of time together in a corner talking while she ignored all the politicians. Asked afterwards, he said that they shared a love of horses and that is what they were talking about.

@garymoore2535 Год назад

You don't get a VC & Bar out of Cornflake packets......the VC is THE highest military honour you can get......cast from the bronze from a Napoleonic Canon no less ! Two of them very very very rare. Recognition....I should say so ! ❤ 🇳🇿🇬🇧

@darrenmarsh8830 Год назад

What an incredible chap, his self sacrificing heroics has one both admiring his bravery and laughing with slight disbelief at his determination to remain unshackled. Thankyou once again for yet another entertaining lecture, I look forward to the next.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for your support

@johnstirling6597 Год назад

Lots of stories about Charles Upham. After his second VC investiture he was walking through a park in London when a passing General started to excoriate him for "not saluting" until the General noticed the VC and bar he was wearing and apologised, also I believe that until his dying day he refused to allow "German" vehicles on his farm.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

John, thanks for sharing. Great story about the general!

@suziederkins3310 Год назад

The story was that the general said " don't you colonials salute your superior officers?" And quick a flash Upham said "dreadfully sorry sir, but I have just been up at the palace talking to King George, and he didn't seem too worried about saluting anyone" and then the general saw the colour on Uphams chest, and saluted him.

@nigelmcquinlan1887 10 месяцев назад

Correct- NO German Or Japanese vehicles STOP. Legend.

@brettcurtis5710 8 месяцев назад

That story about German vehicles is true - one of his daughters bought a VW Beetle while at University in Christchurch - when she came home to the farm for a break, he told her to leave it at the gate - a 3km walk to the homestead!

@richardbostwick4193 Год назад

Another fantastic story, what an incredibly humble hero!

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Glad you enjoyed

@beegeenz Год назад

Ive heard an unproven rumour that he was actually recommended for a third Victoria Cross but his second medal combined the information which had been submitted for the third Cross. The hierarchy couldn’t believe that anyone could be awarded an unprecedented Victoria Cross.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

I have heard something like that too.

@basil3125 28 дней назад

😅i too spoke with some one who had a fair bit of contact with Charlies Upham an he too stated that he was nominated for a third VC but as this was unheard of it was refused.

@alanchalkley4157 Год назад

Loved this series Chris, great job.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thank you.

@edwinsalau150 10 месяцев назад

Bless him, may he rest in peace!

@TheHistoryChap 9 месяцев назад

Thanks for commenting

@Starman2319 Год назад

Fantastic vid'. Thank you for your hard work on bringing their stories to us. We will remember them.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for your support.

@BMW7series251 Год назад

What a man and what a story! Many thanks for posting.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thank you for taking the time to watch.

@stephenbrown1077 Год назад

Amazing story and man. Thankyou so much for sharing.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed it.

@anthonypeacock6230 Год назад

Another excellent telling of a historical event, very educational and what a man. keep up the great work.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for taking the time to comment.

@nickmorales8146 Год назад

Thank you history that was a great story I knew of the two that got the Victoria Cross but I didn't know about 3rd and that was pretty impressive guy I would have liked to have met him in real life it just sounds like a really down-to-earth guy may he rest in peace

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Nice words. Thanks for posting.

@TheRobby1971 Год назад

Absolutely brilliant Chris, your passion and enthusiasm which incidentally is always high was off the scale for our modest double VC winner.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for your kind words.

@stephenpegum9776 Год назад

Another truly fascinating tale & very well told as usual Chris 👏👏

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for your kind words

@welshwarrior5263 Год назад

Extraordinarily humble with the heart of a lion.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Indeed he was.

@asterixdogmatix1073 Год назад

Thank you!

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure.

@matauboy Год назад

And I think by a strange quirk of overlapping communication he was actually recommended for a third Cross. I live next to the Charles Upham retirement village and Kippenbergers house is just down the road. Thanks for making this video.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

@tacraling Год назад

What an incredible man! Thank you for bringing this story to us.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure

@buonafortuna8928 Год назад

Great vid, what an absolute legend Upham was.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Don’t give the man a grenade!

@robturvey9156 Год назад

What an absolutely fabulous man and thanks for a brilliant presentation of his story.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed it.

@lesliepun3494 Год назад

Another instructive video, Chris. I did not know that both Captains Upham and Chavasse were linked via Mary McTamney. Just thought of a Dad's Army link to this video "They don't like it up'em" or Charles Up and at them Upham. What a great man.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Leslie, you aren't the first person to utter Corporal Jones' line!

@billwalker2122 Год назад

Awesome video. My father fought in the same unit and knew him well. He said Upham had "crazy courage" and was just too determined to let a bunch of "bloody Germans" defeat him. He took it very personally when they shot at his men.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment too.

@charlesriley23 Год назад

Thanks for bringing this man's story to light. Now, wish it or not, he will have honor in my memory...

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Nice words.

@AlbertComelles1970 Год назад

Amazing, thank you very much!

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure.

@joeritchie4554 Год назад

What an amazing man! Thank you for sharing his heroic story with us. What a tough warrior.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Glad you enjoyed it.

@bigblue6917 Год назад

Thanks, History Chap. It's interesting how these three men have similar traits as well as connections between them.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure. Yes, isn't it interesting how they showed similar traits.

@CaptCanuck4444 5 месяцев назад

Why hasn't this man's story been made into a feature film? The part that brings me to tears is his refusal to accept the $10,000 award (equivalent to $540,000 today), and his desire that it benefit the families of other soldiers who didn't make it home. So often these heroes have survivor guilt, and are profoundly uncomfortable being celebrated when they are haunted by the memories of all the good men they couldn't save. Watching this man's episode of "This Is Your Life" is so poignant, and the look in his eyes reminds me so much of interviews later in life with Maj. Dick Winters of Easy Company (Band of Brothers).

@TheHistoryChap 5 месяцев назад

Thank you for watching the video and for taking the time to comment

@colinsmith7465 9 месяцев назад

Hi Chris,great video on the amazing Charles Upham,an absolute legend!

@TheHistoryChap 9 месяцев назад

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.

@robcarter55 Год назад

A great video thanks I am sitting at home having been signed off by the doctor for the second week with a chest infection and antibiotics and although I realise it's a different time watching such a story does have to make me feel a fraud on some level when I see and hear what such men endured. True heroes .

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Hope your recovery goes well. Best wishes from Worcester.

@DarrenMarsh-kx8hd Год назад

Humility and bravery do seem to go hand in hand. What an inspirational man, thank you for bringing his story to life.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

As you enjoy my work please do sign up for my weekly newsletter at my website: www.thehistorychap.com

@DarrenMarsh-kx8hd Год назад

@@TheHistoryChap I have subscribed, or at least I think I have, but I'm yet to receive an email. The chances are that I've done something incorrectly, so I'll try again.

@robbiemcc4355 Год назад

Fabulous work 👏

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure.

@jmc7034 Год назад

Excellent vid

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for watching and commenting

@tamojitghosh52 7 месяцев назад

Great man - hope we lives in our memory for ages

@TheHistoryChap 7 месяцев назад

Thanks for watching my video

@davidwoods7720 Год назад

Thanks Chris

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure. Thank you for watching

@CRAIG5835 8 месяцев назад

In the eighties I was lucky enough to see Captain Upham in the flesh while walking in the city of Wellington, our Capital. I was fully aware of who the great man was and although really wanting to say hello to him, he was crossing the road coming straight towards me, there was not another soul around so it was now or never. I was so in awe of just seeing him in the flesh that to be honest, I chickened out and just stood there amazed and never said boo to him such was my Respec.

@TheHistoryChap 8 месяцев назад

Wow, what an experience. Thank you so much for sharing.

@CRAIG5835 8 месяцев назад

Happy to share sir.@@TheHistoryChap

@rogerkay8603 7 месяцев назад

What a guy, we need men like him now.

@TheHistoryChap 7 месяцев назад

Thank you for watching my video

@ragnarl9130 4 месяца назад

Absolutely fantastic, what a man

@TheHistoryChap 3 месяца назад

thanks for watching my video

@davidjacksonjackson3212 Год назад

It is now in these days of unrest in the world we need people like this to install forgotten pride in our young people, and our politicians need to take note and start being honest and truthful as this great man was, Charles upham hero

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for taking the time to comment.

@asterixdogmatix1073 Год назад

I was lucky enough to live down the road from his grave. I managed to pay my respects one rainy day in 1996.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Nice gesture.

@johnmorgan9435 Год назад

Enjoyed this, thank you History Chap! Perhaps you would do one on Colditz!

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Has come to mind. Thanks for the nudge.

@jonathanmawdesley-thomas1863 Год назад

Inspiring story , gallantly told . Pretty understated / modest these NZ guys , what a great bloke ( love the fact he wanted to start as private , when he was a sergeant in the reserves ) .

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for watching.

@gregbolitho9775 Год назад

With most of the the news bein American in Australia, I remember hearing about Charles Upham and his Funeral, on Australian Tv. My Gran remembered him, so I heard a bit more than the news report.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for taking the time to share.

@GreatWaterCircus Год назад

Wow... interesting no movie about these three men who won the VC twice...

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Would be a great film.

@stevenlynas8930 Месяц назад

What an inspirational man. In an age when male role models seem to be in short supply its great to be reminded of a time when men were men! And this was a very fine man indeed. You are right to be proud of him New Zealand

@TheHistoryChap Месяц назад

Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

@lew832 8 месяцев назад

Excellent video. Incredible account of a Brave, decent man.

@TheHistoryChap 8 месяцев назад

Thanks for watching

@BootsontheTable Год назад

Amazing man. One of a kind

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for watching.

@JamesThomas-gg6il Год назад

I'm such a fan of these stories, but this one is by far the best do far. I would ask though, if you have thought about a story on Sir Douglas Bader? I read a book about him when I was a child, and I can't remember the book but his story has wowed me to this day. Thank you ,Chap.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Douglas Bader is an interesting man. Some worshipped him but others said he could be arrogant and that his constant escape attempts were a pain.

@grahamb1 Год назад

@@TheHistoryChap I have to agree with your comment. As a teenager in the 1970's I talked to our next door neighbour (an ex WW2 Squadron Leader) who told us about being in the same POW camp as Bader. Having watched a re run of Reach for the Sky we were singing the praises of Douglas Bader. Eventually, the neighbour decided to stop us by telling us he, (Bader) caused a lot of problems with his insistence in being involved in escape attempts. He was a very divisive individual with some hanging on to his every word and others avoiding him. I appreciate its easy for me to make this statement without him being here to defend it but my ex next door neighbour is not the only person to make a comment of this nature.

@bobp4 Год назад

I'm always astonished that such brave men are not better known. I guess his modesty meant he was never going to seek fame or favours, and that makes him even more admirable IMHO.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for taking the time to comment.

@russbarker2727 Год назад

Thank you, Chris, for that. Cpt Upham's biography "Mark of the lion" is a great read, as is your story to listen to. I have a rather tenuous link to two of these double VC winners, in the I now live in New Zealand, and went to the same school in England, (Magdalen College School, Oxford), as Cpt Noel Chavasse. Have you ever thought of writing a book? I for one would certainly buy it.Once again, thank you Sir.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Russ, a tenuous link is good enough for me!

@rodeastell3615 Год назад

What a guy ... fictional heroes cannot ever replicate the actions by men like this. Great video.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Thanks for watching.

@FranciscoPreira Год назад

That is indeed a great hero and an enormous exampl of humam being, thanks for sharing.

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

@billwilkie6574 5 месяцев назад

My father was a Desert Rat and he told me in the nineteen sixties that there was an Australian soldier in the (I think) 9th division, 2nd AIF, who had won VC. He and the officer who commanded his group were on patrol and were killed. In the officer's pocket was a written recommendation for a second VC. This did not happen as the rules (then, and maybe still) then stated that the recommendation had to be given in person by an officer. My father served at Trobruk, was transferred to Monty's headquarters at El Alemien and then was sent to New Guinea in the fight against the Japanese army. He only survived the war because he was 'manpowered' back to Veterinary studies by Ian Clunies Ross. A review years later by the Repatriation Department advised my mother stated he should have been 'TPId'. Once when looking at his war records I saw a bar with three minature medals on it. They were (I think) 'Peace and Victory Africa', 'Peace and Victory Pacific'', and 'Peace and Victory New Guinea'. Dad said these were the only medals worth having. And in subsequent years working with many people who served I never met anyone who disagreed. May all those who suffered by war rest in peace.

@TheHistoryChap 5 месяцев назад

Thank you for sharing your father’s story. Much appreciated.

@Thomo2461 Год назад

Chris, another amazing individual now immortalised in history by your stories. Is there a book in the pipeline? If so I'll have a signed copy when available. This aside, another individual deserving your attention who proved that even the most humble of us in times of adversity and danger, selflessness acts of courage prevail and this must not be forgotten by all. He remained humble after the war helping others as well. Amazing person. Thanks Chris

@TheHistoryChap Год назад

Tomo, thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

@paulmcewen Год назад

Two books on Charles Upham ww2 exploits. The Mark Of Lion by Ken Sandford and recently another good read Searching For Charlie, by Tom Scott. I actually have a first edition of The Mark Of The Lion by Ken Sandford a bit battered and worn but actually sighed by Charles Upham this book belonged to my late father.