Rifleman William Frederick McFadzean

Regiment: 14th Batt. Royal Irish Rifles
Panel reference: Pier and Face 15 A and 15 B.
Date published: 29/09/1916
Killed in action: Yes
Date of death: 01/07/1916
Cemetery: Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France
Information: Rifleman William Frederick McFadzean, 14th Batt. Royal Irish Rifles, who has been awarded the Victoria Cross for most conspicuous bravery in throwing himself on a box of bombs which, while being opened prior to an attack, slipped into the trench which was crowded with men. The brave soldier was killed in the explosion, but his gallant action saved the lives of his comrades, only one other man being injured. He was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. McFadzean, Rubicon, Cregagh, Belfast, and joined the Y.C.V. Battalion of the Ulster Division in September, 1914. He was a well known swimmer and footballer, being a member of Collegians' Rugby Club.