Gazette Information: Gazette Issue 29765, Victoria Cross, V.C.: http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/29765/supplements/9417. His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to award the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned:- Second Lieu Baxter, late Liverpool Regiment. For most conspicuous bravery. On 17th/18th April 1916 near Blairville, France, prior to a raid on the hostile line he was engaged during two nights in cutting wire close to the enemy's trenches. The enemy could be heard on the other side of the parapet. Second Lieutenant Baxter, while assisting in the wire cutting, held a bomb in his hand with the pin withdrawn ready to throw. On one occasion the bomb slipped and fell to the ground, but he instantly picked it up, unscrewed the base plug, and took out the detonator, which he smothered in the ground, thereby preventing the alarm being given, and undoubtedly saving many casualties. Later, he led the left storming party with the greatest gallantry, and was the first man into the trench, shooting the sentry with his revolver. He then assisted to bomb dug-outs, and finally climbed out of the trench and assisted the last man over the parapet. After this he was not seen again, though search parties went out at once to look for him. There seems no doubt that he lost his life in his great devotion to duty.
Fold3_Team · 31 Oct 2023
Gazette Information: Gazette Issue 29765, Victoria Cross, V.C.: http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/29765/supplements/9417. His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to award the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned:- Second Lieu Baxter, late Liverpool Regiment. For most conspicuous bravery. On 17th/18th April 1916 near Blairville, France, prior to a raid on the hostile line he was engaged during two nights in cutting wire close to the enemy's trenches. The enemy could be heard on the other side of the parapet. Second Lieutenant Baxter, while assisting in the wire cutting, held a bomb in his hand with the pin withdrawn ready to throw. On one occasion the bomb slipped and fell to the ground, but he instantly picked it up, unscrewed the base plug, and took out the detonator, which he smothered in the ground, thereby preventing the alarm being given, and undoubtedly saving many casualties. Later, he led the left storming party with the greatest gallantry, and was the first man into the trench, shooting the sentry with his revolver. He then assisted to bomb dug-outs, and finally climbed out of the trench and assisted the last man over the parapet. After this he was not seen again, though search parties went out at once to look for him. There seems no doubt that he lost his life in his great devotion to duty.