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 at 3pm 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 and Royal Air Forces Association 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 Carter’s heroic actions and the commemorative stone will provide an enduring legacy for him and is a fitting tribute to mark the centenary of his and indeed other servicemen’s extraordinary bravery fighting for their country.”

Town councillor Frank Berry, who is vice-chairman of the Royal British Legion Hailsham & District Branch, said: “It is essential that such acts of gallantry and courage are not forgotten and are acknowledged by the communities that these soldiers were fighting for.”

“We are proud of Company Sergeant Nelson Victor Carter, and this memorial stone will help future generations of Hailsham people to remember his bravery.”