Memorial Stone to be Unveiled for Local VC Hero

A commemorative stone is to be unveiled in Hailsham to honour the memory of Victoria Cross recipient, Company Sergeant Major Nelson Victor Carter.

Marking the 100th anniversary of Nelson Carter’s act of gallantry that earned him the prestigious award during the early years of the First World War, a special ceremony will take place at the war memorial in Hailsham High Street mid afternoon on Saturday 2 July, where the commemorative stone will be unveiled to the public.

Past mayors of Hailsham will join the present Town Mayor, local councillors and Royal British Legion members at the event. Everyone is encouraged to attend.

Company Sergeant Major Nelson Victor Carter VC, who was born in Eastbourne on 6 April 1887 and educated in Hailsham, was 29 years old and a company sergeant major in the 12th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment of the British Army when he died during the First World War.

He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions on 30 June 1916 at Boar’s Head, Richebourg l’Avoue, the award being the highest for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

The stone, which will be maintained by the Town Council, is part of a national scheme that will see every Victoria Cross recipient of the First World War – 628 in total – marked with a commemorative stone.

Town Mayor Councillor Nigel Coltman commented: “Our town is proud to commemorate Company Sergeant Nelson Victor Carte’s heroic actions and remember all those who served during the First World War, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.”

Town councillor Frank Berry, who is vice-chairman of the Royal British Legion Hailsham Branch, said: “Company Sergeant Nelson Victor Carter VC was a perfect example of the kind of bravery and self-sacrifice that military personnel from Sussex and across the country displayed during the First World War and indeed in subsequent conflicts.”

“My fellow councillors and Legion members are delighted to be unveiling the stone to a true hero who is a fitting recipient of the Victoria Cross, the UK’s highest honour for bravery in the face of the enemy.”