Absolutely. Each engagement (and there were about 10 for each VC) would have been enough for a VC. Carrying a wounded soldier 560 metres across open ground will almost guarantee a VC. To survive as he did takes incredible luck.
King George VI had invested Upham with his first Victoria Cross at Buckingham Palace on 11 May 1945. When the recommendation was made for a second VC, the King remarked to Major-General Howard Kippenberger that a bar to the cross would be "very unusual indeed" and enquired firmly, "Does he deserve it?" Kippenberger replied, "In my respectful opinion, sir, Upham won the VC several times over."
When I used to visit my Great Aunt in Christchurch (New Zealand) she lived only a few doors down from Captain Upham, I would always somehow manage to have some war storytime with Captain Upham. My Great Aunts husband of whom I only have a few memories (as he died when I was young), served with Captain Upham in Crete & North Africa. My Great Uncle also received a battlefield promotion (reluctantly) to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant & eventually to 1st Lieutenant, he also survived the war, never been captured, but was wounded on four occasions. But it was the highlight of my twice-yearly visit to Great-Aunt Hilda was to spend some time with Captain Charles Upham. I used to write to him frequently when I was not in Christchurch & he would always write back. He was & still is a superstar to me, although always very modest. Long may your exploits be remembered along with your humility & care for others, including former members of his unit & their families that had fallen on hard times in the post-WWII era. Goodbye my dear friend Charlie, I still miss our talks.
You sir were a very lucky man to have known him and to have had so many conversations with someone who must have been an amazing man. Who like nearly all VC winners probably was unassuming and thoughtful in many ways.
Funny you must be very old because he only lived in Chch for a very short time after the war before he brought his own farm in 57 when he and his wife retired from the farm they lived in a Hamner Springs rest home 🏡
Bless the Kiwis, Aussies, Indians Canadians and Springboks for being with us from teh vey beginning of WWII (without being asked). The fact that twice as many Medals of Honour have been awarded than victoria Crosses speaks to the less excitable attitude of the British establishment (at least in those days).
@@edludbrook1609 the bar is the 2nd VC and him murdering Medic's and doctors went against the rules/laws of war and the Geneva Convention so Upham was a war criminal
My father was with him in Crete and Egypt and dad went on to Italy before coming home to marry my mother. In my hometown of Amberley in north Canterbury there is a statue of George. Dad cried at the unveiling, the First time i had seen him crying. And did the old man get pissed that day.
for the comrades he lost and i do not blame him in any way for get pissed, a total shits how of friends who had died but respect and respect to u and yours tks for sharing, best to your dad and his memories darwin
Upham's actions are the stuff of legends. I'm an Aussie. Parochial types like to say my country punches above it's weight in warfare. If that's the case, then the contribution of our sheep shagging friends across the pond is truly tremendous. The Kiwis were ferocious in WW1 and WW2. I dare say in a SHTF scenario in modern times, they would be equally so. They're lovely, friendly, welcoming nation, with a tiny Defence force. Speaking generally, their isolation has led to a great ingenuity and problem-solving mindset. Kiwis really know how to do stuff. They're never to be underestimated.
And it's the same in sports the ANZACs are probably the two best sporting nations in the world for their populations warriors in both war and sports ANZACs rule
Thanks, coming from an Aussie that means something. We have our differences, but we make a good team in a fight. I live a little over an hour from where Upham's farm was.
My great grandfather... Reginald Stanley Judson, VC , DSM , MM . Winning his medals in a five week period WW1. He won the Victoria Cross at the 1918s Battle of Bapaume for single-handedly overcoming 12 Germans in a machine-gun post. His citation reads: As a leader and inspirer of men he has no superior. He also served in WW2 Good to see all the posts here and to know the men and women who served and gave there lives are not forgotten. 🌷
What a family history. Anybody who captured 12 machine guns in WW1 conditions must have had "balls as big as grapefruits." I actually have genuine German maps from 1918 of the area about Bapaume. You probably know it was captured during the last major German offensive of WW1, the Kaiser Schlacht of March 1918 with their first use of Storm Trooper tactics in WW1. The offensive slowed and stopped after they captured Bapaume. Then the Commonwealth won it back in hard fought battles, the NZ, Aussie and the Canadian troops up front.
A true leader of men. To have ones Officer go forward personally to recon an area. That truly shows Upham's commitment to his men. To lead by example and always from the front. Such a brave and fierce warrior. Very deserving of his two V.C medals. 💪🏼🙏🏻✨
@@zaynevanday142 t just would not be fair to him and other Victoria Cross recipients to make something with cardboard tanks etc. When is this one due for release ?
In fact his second VC was awarded for two separate actions, both of which merited the VC. Two was unheard of but 3 would have been unheard of, so they awarded him the second as a combined award.
I was in the 100 man guard at both Upham VC & Bars funeral 1994 and Jack Hinton VC’s Funeral the following year 1995 both men were from the same Battalion the 20th Btn I was with 2/1 RNZIR based at Burnham Military Camp
Queen Victoria chose the final design of the Victoria Cross, suggesting the motto ‘For Valour’ she explained that the original design that had the words "For Gallantry" was unacceptable to her as "every man who faces the enemy, risks their life and this is a Gallant endeavour!" but true Valour better describes the reason for awarding this medal!
"When I got my medal I was disappointed to find I was the only New Zealander to get one at Gallipoli, because hundreds of Victoria Crosses should have been awarded there. All my mates ever got were wooden crosses." Cyril Bassett VC. (1892-1983). Another version goes " All my mate got was a wooden cross".
A giant among heroes. A leader who lead from the front. Captain Upham was an extraordinary human being, leader, and soldier. An inspiration who is not given enough credit for his exploits.
Seem to recall he was known for solo night time forays into enemy lines with a sack full of grenades. His was not bravery alone, but an ability and skill set that enabled him achieve what he did. The Fallschirmjager and Afrika Korps that he fought were no push over either.
Charles Upham was not the only New Zealander to win a VC in Crete - Alfred Hulme, who also rather liked grenades. Hulme took to recreational hunting of Germans, preferably at night, when he was supposed to be resting. He would climb impossibly steep hillsides / cliffs, toss a grenade into a German pill-box, and then go onto the next. The night's rest would be punctuated by flashes of flame across the hillside.
Only three people have been awarded the VC and Bar, the bar representing a second award of the VC. They are Noel Chavasse and Arthur Martin-Leake, both doctors in the Royal Army Medical Corps, for rescuing wounded under fire; and New Zealander Charles Upham, an infantryman, for combat actions.
I suppose the doctors weren't considered to be 'combatants', although that's somewhat of a technicality when everyone is shooting at you even if you're not allowed to shoot back.
@@zaynevanday142 If you paid more attention you would see no mention was made of the other two Chavass or Leake who also got the VC and bar only Upham.
@@PremierHistory the second vc was actually for 2 actions both of which was vc material ... so he got a bar for those actions ... 3vc's was unheard of ... read his book ... mark of the lion .... only combat soldier to get 2vc's ... as a kiwi he was a childhood hero ... im that age that i remember ww2vets well , even knew couple ww1 vets .. may they all RIP ... great humble men ...
@@PremierHistory There are two books now on Upham, The Mark Of The Lion and a new one out called Searching for Charlie both good reads. I have a first edition book which belonged to my late father. One Anzac Day Charles Upham and Dave Kirk his Sgt in Crete came out of my old mans pub after having a session and being just a young kid I asked him if he would sign his book for me which he did.Charlie and Dave Kirk were great mates and Charles said Dave Kirk was the finest soldier he ever knew and was the only man who could fire a Bren Gun from the hip with deadly accuracy he was the soldier that went with Charlie to bring back soldiers that had been cut off in Crete 👍
At it's time of greatest need the UK was lucky to be able to call on our Commonwealth partners, many battles would of been lost without them, and valour shown by the likes of Charles Upham should never be forgotten, we truly owe a massive debt to that generation, the likes of will never be seen again.
Amazingly well put ZedsDeadOK, so much sacrifice from the men and women of that generation, the hope is future generations won’t forget and will respect what they achieved for us all
True, but the tables turned when Japan entered the war. Oz mainly, but NZ too became the focus of Japans imperial aspirations. Both became the launching pads for America's mighty forces to retake Japan's conquests, starting with Guadal Canal.
Upham was a humble bloke and shunned admiration and publicity after the war. Wanting everyone to know his fellow soldiers he fought alongside that deserved the credit. Arguably he's not New Zealand's most decorated soldier though. That title could go to James Waddell a Kiwi who was in The French Foreign Legion? Upham is certainly the most famous by a long shot though. Thanks for keeping his legacy alive.
Capt Upham deserved the bar to his VC. It should also be noted that during the action in Crete he was also suffering from dysentery. An extremely brave and humble man - from what I've read he would have preferred his men acknowledged than himself. A true Kiwi legend.
I read that when he returned to New Zealand, the people had contributed to a fund to buy him a farm. He turned down their kind offer and bought the farm with a loan. He then refused to allow any German built vehicle to come onto his farm, such was his contempt for the Germans.
I meet Sir Charles Upham on several occasions, the first time was at the Christchurch Club where am I then wife was a chef and he was a member, when he got up to leave I went out through the kitchen door and met him at the restaurant door which I opened for him he asked me if he knew me I replied no sir but I certainly Know Who You Are. He lived in the same area of North Canterbury as my grandparents and I met him again at the RSA in Amberly where my grandfather are World War I veteran was a member. A quiet and unasuming man you would never guess at the exploits that earned him his two Victoria crosses. The two Awards were most definitely earnd and Sir Charles is a legend and hero to all New zealanders his statue stands outside the RSA and Amberley and is an inspiration to all that said and the fitting tribute to the man himself although he would never say so.
He was not the only soldier ever to win a bar to the VC. Arthur Martin-Leake won the VC during the Boer War, and then repeated the feat during WW1; Noel Godfrey Chavasse won the VC in WW1, and later was killed in action; he was awarded a bar to his VC posthumously.
Yes very true WRLO56, however both Arthur and Noel were Doctors within the Army, Charles Upham is the only combat soldier to have been awarded two VCs, none the less all three performed amazing actions to have been given such achievements
Arthur Martin-Leake was on duty at the aid post the dying Noel Chavasse was taken, prior to his second (posthumous) award, although there is no proof one attended the other. Upham was taken to a hospital in Liverpool at the end of the war, prior to being repatriated to NZ. He met and married his nurse, who was a distant relative of the Chevasse family!
@@PremierHistory 'nonetheless...' sounds a bit begrudging. Surprised the BMA, or more to the point, the RAMC havn't been on the blower! If I remember correctly the RAMC has been awarded quite a few VCs.
My great uncle Lou was in the POW camp with him when the photo of him relaxing with a smoke in the middle of barbed wire with a cheeky smile on his face, uncle Lou told me the Luftwaffe guards were terrified of him but respected him hugely, on 1 escape attempt from a Stalag Lift camp, the guards refused to shoot at him, they were in awe of his bravery. After the war, he absolutely refused to allow any German machinery on his farm.....that is the measure of his resolve, a great and humble man.
Wow Kiwi! Thanks so much for sharing, that really is a great example of how much impact he had on the Germans! A true hero in every sense of the word 👍🏻
He also cheered the bombers going on to bomb Berlin, pointing to the sky, shouting "what do you think these are - ruddy ducks?". He was alluding to the quote from Reichsmarschall Goering "If ever a bomb falls on Berlin, you can call me Meier".
Three Soldiers laid the wreath at CPT Upham's funeral service, One Brit Soldier, one Aussie, and one Kiwi, I was the Kiwi. I had also personally met CPT Upham twice. A great man!
We had a bunch of US troops arrive by aircraft in the UK to refuel on their way eastward. They asked for, and were granted, a quick walk around the aircraft and then reboarded. We later found out that they were then eligible for a medal to say they served on UK soil. I'm not kidding.
We had the greatest pleasure of hosting Charles and Molly on most Anzac day's. Him with his Gin and very little water [ said it kept him young when asked ] He enjoyed his time at Burnham as he got to spend it with Friend's and comrades. He was so humble he hated the formalities of being a VC X2 WINNER
What a man what a soldier!! The epitomy of every recipient of the VC. It's a dead man's decoration in most cases. And in my opinion any man awarded that medal that wasn't KIA getting it would undoubtedly earned more.. true fearless courageous warrior men!! Can't believe this is the first time I've heard of such a hero. Respect and Rip!!
Charles Upham was a very shy and private person in his life after the war, you can find a video of "This is your life - Charles Upham" on this site. th-cam.com/video/UzfCc28zPCQ/w-d-xo.html
A very brave man indeed. For those interested in VC Recipients check this man out he also won 2 VCs. Captain Noel Godfrey Chavasse, VC & Bar, MC was a British medical doctor, Olympic athlete, and British Army officer from the Chavasse family. He is one of only three people to be awarded a Victoria Cross twice. He won his in WW1
I am an ex-pat Englishman, and until 17 years ago had never heard of Charles Upham or his double VC. What a hero he was. I am proud to say that one of the other double VCs was an ex-pupil at my school. That being Magdalen College School Oxford, and the double VC winner being Captain Noel Chavasse VC and bar.
There's a story of a pilot who had suffered 72 individual wounds to his body while flying a mission over Germany, he held on against all odds and landed the plane saving his crew. He didn't win the VC because he showed too much regard for his own life.
Thanks for the video. There is precious little about Upham's exploits on the web. Couple of minor things of note. In addition to being badly wounded during the heroics of his first VC, he was also terribly ill with dysentery. And when you said he jumped from a moving German prisoner truck and broke his ankle during one of multiple escape attempts, he still made it almost 400 metres. Under fire.
I was privileged to meet Charles Upham a number of times in his later years. He was not a big man but he exuded an air of determination which was palpable. He also possessed a strikingly piercing gaze which was quite unnerving.
I read a really good book about Charles Upham (I think it was called "Mark of the Lion"). A couple of things that I can remember from the book were... i) His actions warranted the award of three VCs (At least). ii) After his failed escape attempt the commanding German officer came out to see what was happening. Upon seeing Charles Upham casually smoking a cigarette whist being caught in the barbed wire fence, He abruptly about faced and went back into his office. This was followed by awkward period where nobody knew what they were supposed to do. The German guards kept their guns pointed at Charles, awaiting further orders. After a while the commanding German officer returns with his camera and takes a picture of Charles (The one you see at 7:05). Apparently he could see the funny side of the situation.
The Guards had orders to shoot escapers. The guard pointed his rifle and was about to shoot him, when Upham pulled out the cigarette, lit it, and told him to F off and get an officer, because he refused to be shot by a private. The other prisoners who were watching were abusing the guard, and a British officer was overheard saying "what nerve", as Upham slowly took out the smoke and lit it. Shows how cool and quick thinking under stress he was.
Rommel said on many occasions that he hated facing New Zealanders, great outdoorsmen and exceptional troops, especially 28th New Zealand infantry regiment, Maori battalion.
Yes and Maori Battalion only got one VC (Te Moananui a Kiwa Ngarimu) but they deserved plenty more. I do believe that at the time it was understood that these men were likely to perform very well, as they did, but not being European, powers that be (were) were not willing to let them be seen as superior so one VC was possibly agreed upon before they went into action.
@@PremierHistory most people it’s bravery, Uphams actions seemed normality to save his men. An amazing individual, who should be remembered by all 👍 great video, thank you
Something they failed to mention is his wife's relative was a double VC winner capt noel chavasse A doctor, as for me captain upham greatest achievement was taking the money collected for him and starting a scholarship to help the children of fellow kiwis a true man of honour and humility and some one to try and emulate
Lord Ashcroft recently said ,No frontline Operative will ever earn two V.Cs again ,,,,,,,,,Mr Upham will hold the Absolute Honor in the Perils of world War 2 as being the most Decorated Commonwealth Soldier of the War and only Combat recipient to receive two V.Cs the only other two Incredible recipients being Medical Personnel. Be Proud New Zealand 🇳🇿
In 1996 I arrived in New Zealand. Charles Upham was unknown to me. The statue referred to towards the end of the video is however very well known to me. Mark White is the artist who created the statue clay. Looking back I can now say that it was an honor to cast the bronze version. Bronze casting statues was my job at the time. It took several days to put all the parts together and I look back to a rather nice time with Mark. Once the statue was unveiled I started reading about Charles Upham. He was a remarkable man indeed. A true leader and hero. People in New Zealand should never forget that men like him fought for the freedom we have today. Charles Upham had put all his might into destroying enemy (Nazi Germany). He disliked racism with a vengeance. I can only hope that the statue I helped to create may be a reminder to people what he fought for.
1942: An entire generation of 19-20-somethings resolve to win WW2, no matter the cost. 2021: Starbucks loses internet access and an entire generation of 19-20-somthings shit their pants.
He wasn’t a colonel when he earnt them. Only a lieutenant and then Captain. Oops, sorry just saw you said ‘colonial’, not Colonel. But yes, a lot of prejudice by British officers who think they know everything, then being shown up by the little guy from the antipodes.
My dad fought with him in the 1st Echelon of the Famous 20th Battalion (A South Island Battalion) in the 2nd NZEF, my dad was in Charlies Company; My dad became a Sergeant and a Tank Commander after being wounded and taken POW in operation Crusader. My mom and dad got very well with Charlie and Molly Upham, but my dad said he was partly mad, and he had to be to do what he did. My mom and Dad, and Charlie and Molly Upham as well as well as a number of the survivors of the 1st Echelon of the 20th ended up catching up with the survivors of the Fallschirmjager in 1981, the 40th anniversary of the battle of Crete. The Germans put them on a "Right Fuss" my said the food and wine was amazing. I could go on as when I was at University, in the holidays I would come home to the Farm, and when I was of age I was allowed to play waiter in the lounge when dad had his old mates from the 20th come to visit. I wished I recorded the conversations! the 20th Battalion was probably the most highly decorated Battalion in the British Empire; it also suffered 397 KIA out of approximately 1,000 men! I could go on about Charlie, but let him RIP.
Must have had special tailoring to his uniform - extra large pockets for all those grenades he used so well, plus extra room in the crotch area so his big brass ones wouldn’t chafe too much (there was a war on and only so much material available for brass ones that big!). What an absolute hero.
@@waynes9876 he would have made a a great Bootneck or Para, but even without doing so he was still a one man force multiplier, hard not to feel a smidgen of pity for those on the receiving end of his grenades! It might sound an odd question but is there any reference that mention he was a demon bowler on the cricket pitch? Bloody amazing man.
One of favourite stories about Charles Upham VC and Bar (When he was crossing enemy lines in North Africa): "At one point the vehicle became bogged down in the sand, so Upham coolly ordered some nearby Italian soldiers to push it free. Though they were somewhat surprised to be given an order by one of the enemy, Upham's expression left them in no doubt that he should be obeyed."
@@PremierHistory All VC winners are clearly very special people, the fact-based accounts of how some VCs were won (like Charles Upham's) are barely believable....
Agreed, some of the feats of bravery described are hard to fathom, but ultimately glad that those actions and the men who took part in them are remembered
@@PremierHistory Late afternoon in November 2014, I was sat in a cafe/restaurant overlooking Red Square in Moscow, and purely by chance (on that particular evening) the Russian's were rehearsing the recreation of the original 1941 military parade on Red Square (prior to the Red Army entering WW2). So there were 100s of Russian soldiers in full period WW2 costume (including white snow smocks) weapons and vehicles on Red Square - including at least 10 T32 tanks trundling around on the cobbles of Red Square. It was an absolutely incredible site and like travelling back in time 73 years!
My paternal grandfather Gustav Suhr was in 22 Battalion B'Co with Charlie Upham. Upham and a platoon of troops from B'co 22btn held Marleime Airfield on Crete while under sustained and heavy attack by German aircraft and Paratroopers. Eventually they were using German weapons as they had run out of ammo. My grandfather, Gustav Suhr was the last Bren gunner on Marleime airfield before the retreat. He and Upham were friends after the war
It's difficult comparing Victoria Crosses with the Medal of Honor. The size of the armies and engagements fought. Maybe the VC's were harder to come by, maybe not. I have read Capt Uphams 'the Mark of the Lion' and his exploits were remarkable. He lived in the area I live in and there is a statue to him in North Canterbury. Thanks for the video.
"The Mark of the Lion" is how I heard of this Grear Warrior over 50 years ago. It was also my first introduction to Tobruk other than the movie the Desert War in general and Colditz Castile. May well have made a greater movie than "Saving Private Ryan".
@@dynevor6327 Maybe your remark is addressing someone else's comment. My famiy were in the fighting shortly after war broke out in 1939. US in 1917 for WW1.
I have a theory that because New Zealand is quite a "new" country, that the residents from 100 years ago were tough nuts after pioneering this country and working on farms, etc.
The MAN deserved all the VC's efforts he put in to help ALL of us to not live in a DICKTATOR Dominated Rule. The WORLD will I am afraid to say needs people like this NOW! Cheers KIWI Brothers, John, Australia.
@@PremierHistory Thanks Cobber! I should also have mentioned we will always have our sporting rivalry and that will not ever stop us from standing together! John. PS: Reminds me of a line, You are a Better Man than I am Gungidin. If my speeling is wrong, pleeese corekt me. lol.
I met him a few months before his death, i addressed him as sir charles and he just asked me to drop the "sir" when he died the service was held at the christchurch anglican cathedral . ( pre earthquake) the church was full, most of the surrounding town square was too.
I believe he was married in the UK at New Milton, Hampshire, just after the war, while he was in the UK to be awarded his VC's. It was then when my Grandfather (Arthur Upham) met him. All who fought in WW2 were very brave.
Upham and Nancy Wake, our Govt seems to believe honouring our heroes is glorifying war so they ignore them. Nancy was born in NZ,(Maori on her mothers side) grew up in Australia then went to France before the war. During the war she was on the Gestapos most wanted list and after the war was awarded medals by the UK, France and the USA but in NZ it wsn't until 2006 she was awarded a medal by the RSA and in 2010 a memorial pylon?? near her birthplace in Wellington.
NZ has a string of incredible military successes from the Boer War, WW1, WW2, Korea, Malaya, Vietnam, Bosnia, Timor, Afghanistan and few know, fewer teach it or write about it, so it is being sadly forgotten. We should be telling (shouting) our stories "Lest we forget".....
There's another one just out, by Tom Scott, an excellent read. My Dad was in the 18th and fought in Greece (wounded), Crete and the desert. When we were kids he'd be putting on his gumboots to go out on the farm and we'd ask "where are you going, Dad?" and he'd invariably say "Up the Blue."
Congratulations on a superb piece. I can only wonder at the character of the man. It seems to me that he combined fearlessness and leadership; they don’t always go together. I have just subscribed and am now going to look at your other pieces. Not having seen your library yet, can I say that I would like to see pieces on heroes on every side. Irrespective of nationality, the tales of exceptional people should be heard. We owe them that - and so much more
Thanks Theo, really appreciate the support and glad you enjoyed the video. Certainly focusing on individual heroism and incredible tales during wartime is something that will feature in videos on the channel. On both sides of conflict and various wars
If you can get a copy, read Mark of the Lion. The story of Upham. Great book. Read it many times. But then read just about any book, including Infantry Brigadier, by Kippenberger, or any about the men who fought and they are a fascinating view into those days and the men who fought.
“Down under” is Australia. Your average Kiwi would be offended if you said he was an Aussie, and the same applies if you called an Aussie a “Kiwi”. 🤬😤. Even though they fought together as ANZAC’s in some places there’s a lot of rivalry between them. Damn colonials!
@@richardlamb3608 To me "down under" covers both of us. I've been to NZ and loved it. I also loved your warbird museums. Rivalry goes without saying, lol, but we both give as good as we get and all in fun but I was ashamed after a certain under arm bowl and I'm not even a sportsman. Have a good one mate.
@@richardlamb3608 Hi mate, looks like my last reply got cut short a bit. We have rivalry all be it in fun although I was ashamed after a certain underarm bowl, not that I'm into sport. Stay safe mate.
I stayed with Upham's daughter and her husband, a real character in his own right and still have a photograph of me holding Upham's miniatures which have the VC and Bar. What happened to his actual VC is another interesting story...
Both my Grandfather and Great Grandfather were on Crete serving in 19th Infantry and Armour Regiment My Great Grandfather commanding the Battalion as the Commanding officer was wounded in the retreat from Greece my Grandfather a private in the same Btn he was captured on Crete
About 80% of metal honor recipients received theirs posthumously. There are very few that have earned more than one. Tom Custer won both of his during the Civil War.Although he survived the Civil War, he later perished at little bighorn With older brother George. Victoria Cross the Victoria cross is earned under similar circumstances. It’s amazing that Captain Upham survived into old age.
Upham was absolutely deserving of both his VCs and more. Sad to miss out the other two double VC winners because they wern't combatants. In a way and without detracting from Upham's marvelous exploits, they are more deserving than a combatant because they were not armed but saved lives. Both of these other double VCs were doctors, one in the Boer War the other during WW1 (KIA). Surgeon Captain Arthur Martin-Leake and Captain Noel Chavasse were their names.
How do you know you don't have such courage? Courage comes out when people have a need for it. Far better to never have to face the circumstances that require you to endanger your life.
Upham was a humble bloke and shunned admiration and publicity after the war. Wanting everyone to know his fellow soldiers he fought alongside that deserved the credit. Arguably he's not New Zealand's most decorated soldier. That title could go to James Waddell a Kiwi who was in The French Foreign Legion. Upham is certainly the most famous though. Thanks for keeping his legacy alive.
No way was it enough! His exploits in Crete alone could have won him more than one. But believe he was such a modest man when it came to the awards, a true hero and frankly not enough people know of his story.
@@PremierHistory Well I applaud you for putting the time and effort into making this video which helps keep his memory alive, two VC's its an incredible story worthy of a huge movie budget. I would love to see his story told on the big screen some day.
Thanks Ryan! The channel is all about helping people learn about stories just like Charles Upham. Hopefully more people find out about this incredible man 👍🏻
Do you think Uphams achievements were deserving of two Victoria Crosses? Or do you know a story of another brave soldier from WW2?
Absolutely. Each engagement (and there were about 10 for each VC) would have been enough for a VC. Carrying a wounded soldier 560 metres across open ground will almost guarantee a VC. To survive as he did takes incredible luck.
No doubt at all! Such amazing bravery from him and without hesitation for each action! Well deserved.
Are you kidding!! He probably deserved more than 2!! A truly incredible man. If he was American there’d have been a movie made about him.
Completely agree SuperEdge! His actions were amazing a true hero 👍🏻
King George VI had invested Upham with his first Victoria Cross at Buckingham Palace on 11 May 1945. When the recommendation was made for a second VC, the King remarked to Major-General Howard Kippenberger that a bar to the cross would be "very unusual indeed" and enquired firmly, "Does he deserve it?" Kippenberger replied, "In my respectful opinion, sir, Upham won the VC several times over."
When I used to visit my Great Aunt in Christchurch (New Zealand) she lived only a few doors down from Captain Upham, I would always somehow manage to have some war storytime with Captain Upham. My Great Aunts husband of whom I only have a few memories (as he died when I was young), served with Captain Upham in Crete & North Africa. My Great Uncle also received a battlefield promotion (reluctantly) to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant & eventually to 1st Lieutenant, he also survived the war, never been captured, but was wounded on four occasions. But it was the highlight of my twice-yearly visit to Great-Aunt Hilda was to spend some time with Captain Charles Upham. I used to write to him frequently when I was not in Christchurch & he would always write back. He was & still is a superstar to me, although always very modest. Long may your exploits be remembered along with your humility & care for others, including former members of his unit & their families that had fallen on hard times in the post-WWII era. Goodbye my dear friend Charlie, I still miss our talks.
Wow Steven what an insightful and touching story! Thank you for sharing that amazing information, glad you were able to experience that
You sir were a very lucky man to have known him and to have had so many conversations with someone who must have been an amazing man. Who like nearly all VC winners probably was unassuming and thoughtful in many ways.
Thanks gor your words
Funny you must be very old because he only lived in Chch for a very short time after the war before he brought his own farm in 57 when he and his wife retired from the farm they lived in a Hamner Springs rest home 🏡
As a Cantab I wish I had met the man.
Kiwis don't shout about their exploits, they just get the job done. That was Upham.
And what a great way to go about things!
Bless the Kiwis, Aussies, Indians Canadians and Springboks for being with us from teh vey beginning of WWII (without being asked). The fact that twice as many Medals of Honour have been awarded than victoria Crosses speaks to the less excitable attitude of the British establishment (at least in those days).
@@robertdore9592 the MOH is split Army Navy and Air Force
He actually justified for four and was so angry at getting a second, they didnt even suggest.
@@edludbrook1609 the bar is the 2nd VC and him murdering Medic's and doctors went against the rules/laws of war and the Geneva Convention so Upham was a war criminal
My father was with him in Crete and Egypt and dad went on to Italy before coming home to marry my mother. In my hometown of Amberley in north Canterbury there is a statue of George. Dad cried at the unveiling, the First time i had seen him crying. And did the old man get pissed that day.
Wow, great story! Very sad about your father, I’m sure he had some good times over there
for the comrades he lost and i do not blame him in any way for get pissed, a total shits how of friends who had died but respect and respect to u and yours tks for sharing, best to your dad and his memories darwin
A statue of George?
I’m sure you mean “Charles!”….
Upham's actions are the stuff of legends. I'm an Aussie. Parochial types like to say my country punches above it's weight in warfare. If that's the case, then the contribution of our sheep shagging friends across the pond is truly tremendous. The Kiwis were ferocious in WW1 and WW2. I dare say in a SHTF scenario in modern times, they would be equally so. They're lovely, friendly, welcoming nation, with a tiny Defence force. Speaking generally, their isolation has led to a great ingenuity and problem-solving mindset. Kiwis really know how to do stuff. They're never to be underestimated.
Well said Les, amazing fighters from New Zealand and Australia!
Our Aussie brothers are blimmin' top notch. No doubts about that!
Brave servicemen everywhere!
And it's the same in sports the ANZACs are probably the two best sporting nations in the world for their populations warriors in both war and sports ANZACs rule
Thanks, coming from an Aussie that means something. We have our differences, but we make a good team in a fight. I live a little over an hour from where Upham's farm was.
BERT MUNRO !!! Worlds Fastest INDIAN 😀g
As Corporal Jones maintained, "They don't like it Upham!"
@Martin West ditto
"Stupid Boy!" 😜😁😁
@Martin West Yeah, me too.
My great grandfather... Reginald Stanley Judson, VC , DSM , MM . Winning his medals in a five week period WW1.
He won the Victoria Cross at the 1918s Battle of Bapaume for single-handedly overcoming 12 Germans in a machine-gun post.
His citation reads: As a leader and inspirer of men he has no superior.
He also served in WW2
Good to see all the posts here and to know the men and women who served and gave there lives are not forgotten. 🌷
Very touching and amazing story Mark, thanks for sharing the history of your family
You must he very proud & rightly so!
What a family history. Anybody who captured 12 machine guns in WW1 conditions must have had "balls as big as grapefruits." I actually have genuine German maps from 1918 of the area about Bapaume. You probably know it was captured during the last major German offensive of WW1, the Kaiser Schlacht of March 1918 with their first use of Storm Trooper tactics in WW1. The offensive slowed and stopped after they captured Bapaume. Then the Commonwealth won it back in hard fought battles, the NZ, Aussie and the Canadian troops up front.
Amazing family history
never forgotten pal but always respected
Not surprised that gaining a VC and bar is so rare. Most VC recipients seem to get their first posthumously....
You’re right this seems to be true in a lot of cases Adventus
At least 75% of VCs are awarded posthumously. It is not a medal you try and get.
He obviously had a great team of men in support of his exploits.
@@harrycurrie9664 Yes, but more importantly, he cared about his men, and lead by example. Truly inspiring!
Tricky to get a second VC if your first is posthumous
A true leader of men. To have ones Officer go forward personally to recon an area. That truly shows Upham's commitment to his men. To lead by example and always from the front. Such a brave and fierce warrior. Very deserving of his two V.C medals. 💪🏼🙏🏻✨
I have been Badgering Sir Peter Jackson for over 10 years to make a film about Upham
That would be great if he did. This guy had balls !
I would like to see that but only if it is recreated as authentically as possible, it would need a huge budget to make it real and believable.
@@harrycurrie9664 www.fireflyfilms.co.nz/upham#:~:text=Upham,story%20of%20Captain%20Charles%20Upham.
@@harrycurrie9664 Unfortunately it doesn't look like a big production company
@@zaynevanday142 t just would not be fair to him and other Victoria Cross recipients to make something with cardboard tanks etc. When is this one due for release ?
In fact his second VC was awarded for two separate actions, both of which merited the VC. Two was unheard of but 3 would have been unheard of, so they awarded him the second as a combined award.
I was in the 100 man guard at both Upham VC & Bars funeral 1994 and Jack Hinton VC’s Funeral the following year 1995 both men were from the same Battalion the 20th Btn I was with 2/1 RNZIR based at Burnham Military Camp
Awesome Zayne, thanks for sharing your story!
@@PremierHistory no worries
An honour ... lucky you ...great humble men ... loved that generation of men ....
From my home town. Great New Zealander. I visited his grave a couple of months ago. Like the man himself, it is modest and amongst his family.
tbh thats the best way
Hope you can get down there again in a few days for his commemoration on behalf of all of us that can't.
Queen Victoria chose the final design of the Victoria Cross, suggesting the motto ‘For Valour’ she explained that the original design that had the words "For Gallantry" was unacceptable to her as "every man who faces the enemy, risks their life and this is a Gallant endeavour!" but true Valour better describes the reason for awarding this medal!
Smart lady
It is rumoured that Chuck Norris was so frightened of this man that he still has nightmares.
Haha even Chuck Norris couldn’t handle Charles Upham, nice one
Hahahaha good 1
Thats more like it
"When I got my medal I was disappointed to find I was the only New Zealander to get one at Gallipoli, because hundreds of Victoria Crosses should have been awarded there. All my mates ever got were wooden crosses." Cyril Bassett VC. (1892-1983). Another version goes " All my mate got was a wooden cross".
A giant among heroes. A leader who lead from the front. Captain Upham was an extraordinary human being, leader, and soldier. An inspiration who is not given enough credit for his exploits.
100% agree, more people need to know of his amazing achievements, what a man
Seem to recall he was known for solo night time forays into enemy lines with a sack full of grenades. His was not bravery alone, but an ability and skill set that enabled him achieve what he did. The Fallschirmjager and Afrika Korps that he fought were no push over either.
Certainly difficult forces to come up against for sure!
Charles Upham was not the only New Zealander to win a VC in Crete - Alfred Hulme, who also rather liked grenades.
Hulme took to recreational hunting of Germans, preferably at night, when he was supposed to be resting. He would climb impossibly steep hillsides / cliffs, toss a grenade into a German pill-box, and then go onto the next. The night's rest would be punctuated by flashes of flame across the hillside.
Only three people have been awarded the VC and Bar, the bar representing a second award of the VC. They are Noel Chavasse and Arthur Martin-Leake, both doctors in the Royal Army Medical Corps, for rescuing wounded under fire; and New Zealander Charles Upham, an infantryman, for combat actions.
Very true North’n’South!
I suppose the doctors weren't considered to be 'combatants', although that's somewhat of a technicality when everyone is shooting at you even if you're not allowed to shoot back.
Yeah true that
If you had listened to the video the guy who uploaded it actually says that right at the start may pay to listen next time eh ?
@@zaynevanday142 If you paid more attention you would see no mention was made of the other two Chavass or Leake who also got the VC and bar only Upham.
The one dislike is a disappointed soul that this chap only got two VC's.
True Larry, could have had many more with his actions!
@@PremierHistory the second vc was actually for 2 actions both of which was vc material ... so he got a bar for those actions ... 3vc's was unheard of ... read his book ... mark of the lion .... only combat soldier to get 2vc's ... as a kiwi he was a childhood hero ... im that age that i remember ww2vets well , even knew couple ww1 vets .. may they all RIP ... great humble men ...
Thanks for sharing Mike, I’ve heard of his book but haven’t had the please of reading it yet, will give it a go soon
@@PremierHistory There are two books now on Upham, The Mark Of The Lion and a new one out called Searching for Charlie both good reads. I have a first edition book which belonged to my late father. One Anzac Day Charles Upham and Dave Kirk his Sgt in Crete came out of my old mans pub after having a session and being just a young kid I asked him if he would sign his book for me which he did.Charlie and Dave Kirk were great mates and Charles said Dave Kirk was the finest soldier he ever knew and was the only man who could fire a Bren Gun from the hip with deadly accuracy he was the soldier that went with Charlie to bring back soldiers that had been cut off in Crete 👍
That’s a great story Paul thanks! Good to hear that Charles and Dave remained good friends following the war and they both made it back home
A selfless and caring man whose only thoughts were for others. RIP
Nicely put Guy
A
He treated animals the exact same way, was humble, kind and giving to his core. Like all true hero’s, at some point, surrendered his ego entirely.
At it's time of greatest need the UK was lucky to be able to call on our Commonwealth partners, many battles would of been lost without them, and valour shown by the likes of Charles Upham should never be forgotten, we truly owe a massive debt to that generation, the likes of will never be seen again.
Amazingly well put ZedsDeadOK, so much sacrifice from the men and women of that generation, the hope is future generations won’t forget and will respect what they achieved for us all
I agree entirely.
Hear hear!
True, but the tables turned when Japan entered the war. Oz mainly, but NZ too became the focus of Japans imperial aspirations. Both became the launching pads for America's mighty forces to retake Japan's conquests, starting with Guadal Canal.
I am always humbled by New Zealand's immense contribution during WW11. Charles Upham's leadership and commitment to his men was outstanding.
An amazing man who lead by example
Think he will be turning in his grave to see what new Zealand has become today
For a small Country we also contributed a lot in the First World War, suffering 60% casualties.
Fantastic story! I had never heard of Upham. Thank you for telling his story New Zealand should be proud that they produced such a hero.
I am in awe of this mans bravery, tenacity, commitment and leadership.
Upham was a humble bloke and shunned admiration and publicity after the war. Wanting everyone to know his fellow soldiers he fought alongside that deserved the credit. Arguably he's not New Zealand's most decorated soldier though. That title could go to James Waddell a Kiwi who was in The French Foreign Legion? Upham is certainly the most famous by a long shot though. Thanks for keeping his legacy alive.
God Bless Charles Upham!! He's my hero!!! Rest In Peace, good sir!!
A hero indeed Tri Cao!
Capt Upham deserved the bar to his VC. It should also be noted that during the action in Crete he was also suffering from dysentery. An extremely brave and humble man - from what I've read he would have preferred his men acknowledged than himself. A true Kiwi legend.
Amazing and brave man he was!
I read that when he returned to New Zealand, the people had contributed to a fund to buy him a farm. He turned down their kind offer and bought the farm with a loan. He then refused to allow any German built vehicle to come onto his farm, such was his contempt for the Germans.
I meet Sir Charles Upham on several occasions, the first time was at the Christchurch Club where am I then wife was a chef and he was a member, when he got up to leave I went out through the kitchen door and met him at the restaurant door which I opened for him he asked me if he knew me I replied no sir but I certainly Know Who You Are. He lived in the same area of North Canterbury as my grandparents and I met him again at the RSA in Amberly where my grandfather are World War I veteran was a member. A quiet and unasuming man you would never guess at the exploits that earned him his two Victoria crosses. The two Awards were most definitely earnd and Sir Charles is a legend and hero to all New zealanders his statue stands outside the RSA and Amberley and is an inspiration to all that said and the fitting tribute to the man himself although he would never say so.
TVNZ This is your life. Did a show for Charles Upham. A very private and quiet man. A true gentleman and a fine Kiwi
What a man he was!
He was not the only soldier ever to win a bar to the VC. Arthur Martin-Leake won the VC during the Boer War, and then repeated the feat during WW1; Noel Godfrey Chavasse won the VC in WW1, and later was killed in action; he was awarded a bar to his VC posthumously.
Yes very true WRLO56, however both Arthur and Noel were Doctors within the Army, Charles Upham is the only combat soldier to have been awarded two VCs, none the less all three performed amazing actions to have been given such achievements
Arthur Martin-Leake was on duty at the aid post the dying Noel Chavasse was taken, prior to his second (posthumous) award, although there is no proof one attended the other. Upham was taken to a hospital in Liverpool at the end of the war, prior to being repatriated to NZ. He met and married his nurse, who was a distant relative of the Chevasse family!
Crazy world we live in arhassoc! Always seems to be these strange coincidences! Thanks for sharing
@@PremierHistory 'nonetheless...' sounds a bit begrudging. Surprised the BMA, or more to the point, the RAMC havn't been on the blower! If I remember correctly the RAMC has been awarded quite a few VCs.
Very true Jon, there might be a call soon! Haha
My great uncle Lou was in the POW camp with him when the photo of him relaxing with a smoke in the middle of barbed wire with a cheeky smile on his face, uncle Lou told me the Luftwaffe guards were terrified of him but respected him hugely, on 1 escape attempt from a Stalag Lift camp, the guards refused to shoot at him, they were in awe of his bravery. After the war, he absolutely refused to allow any German machinery on his farm.....that is the measure of his resolve, a great and humble man.
Wow Kiwi! Thanks so much for sharing, that really is a great example of how much impact he had on the Germans! A true hero in every sense of the word 👍🏻
He also cheered the bombers going on to bomb Berlin, pointing to the sky, shouting "what do you think these are - ruddy ducks?". He was alluding to the quote from Reichsmarschall Goering "If ever a bomb falls on Berlin, you can call me Meier".
That’s a great quote Sugar! What a man
@@peace-now I think he used slightly different words other than ruddy.😁
@@harrycurrie9664 Why would you say that? I don't think you understand Kiwis. We say ruddy ducks - and fluffy bunnies also.
Three Soldiers laid the wreath at CPT Upham's funeral service, One Brit Soldier, one Aussie, and one Kiwi, I was the Kiwi. I had also personally met CPT Upham twice. A great man!
Wow what a soldier! Tough to imagine what he went through with seeming indifference. Thank you for your service, sir. R. I. P.
There should be movies made of people with VC's and a bar.
In the USA, they make a movie of your exploits if you get a purple heart.
Very true Steven, their stories deserve to be told on a bigger scale!
We used to joke the yanks give out medals or ironing their kit and getting up in the morning.🙄🙄
@@Jabber-ig3iw hey .....they still do !!!
There are three such people, and boy are they all worthy heroes.
We had a bunch of US troops arrive by aircraft in the UK to refuel on their way eastward.
They asked for, and were granted, a quick walk around the aircraft and then reboarded.
We later found out that they were then eligible for a medal to say they served on UK soil.
I'm not kidding.
We had the greatest pleasure of hosting Charles and Molly on most Anzac day's. Him with his Gin and very little water [ said it kept him young when asked ] He enjoyed his time at Burnham as he got to spend it with Friend's and comrades. He was so humble he hated the formalities of being a VC X2 WINNER
This is a MAN, if ever I saw one RIP sir
Well said Ray, what a man he was!
What a man what a soldier!! The epitomy of every recipient of the VC. It's a dead man's decoration in most cases. And in my opinion any man awarded that medal that wasn't KIA getting it would undoubtedly earned more.. true fearless courageous warrior men!! Can't believe this is the first time I've heard of such a hero. Respect and Rip!!
Amazing story isn’t it Mo8616, hopefully more and more people start to hear about it
@@PremierHistory Roger that
Charles Upham was a very shy and private person in his life after the war, you can find a video of "This is your life - Charles Upham" on this site. th-cam.com/video/UzfCc28zPCQ/w-d-xo.html
Thanks Harry
A very brave man indeed.
For those interested in VC Recipients check this man out he also won 2 VCs.
Captain Noel Godfrey Chavasse, VC & Bar, MC was a British medical doctor, Olympic athlete, and British Army officer from the Chavasse family. He is one of only three people to be awarded a Victoria Cross twice. He won his in WW1
Surgeon Captain Arthur Martin-Leake of the Royal Army Medical Corps was the third soldier that has been awarded 2 VC's
I am an ex-pat Englishman, and until 17 years ago had never heard of Charles Upham or his double VC. What a hero he was. I am proud to say that one of the other double VCs was an ex-pupil at my school. That being Magdalen College School Oxford, and the double VC winner being Captain Noel Chavasse VC and bar.
Well said, Noel Chavasse VC and bar a true hero, only double VC recipient of WW1.
There's a story of a pilot who had suffered 72 individual wounds to his body while flying a mission over Germany, he held on against all odds and landed the plane saving his crew. He didn't win the VC because he showed too much regard for his own life.
Did he win anything? GC? DCM? MM?
In such a long & brutal war, there’s bound to be thousands of events that could be considered for VC.
He was awarded the VC his name is John Cruikshank
He was a Catalina pilot involved in an attack on a U Boat and he is the last VC holder from WW2 still alive.@@ghammo1251
Thanks for the video. There is precious little about Upham's exploits on the web. Couple of minor things of note. In addition to being badly wounded during the heroics of his first VC, he was also terribly ill with dysentery. And when you said he jumped from a moving German prisoner truck and broke his ankle during one of multiple escape attempts, he still made it almost 400 metres. Under fire.
Theres a really good book written in the 1950’s about him , his wounds were unreal and damaged one arm for life. Excellent read.
@@stephengibbs4372 Its called "Mark of the Lion".
I was privileged to meet Charles Upham a number of times in his later years. He was not a big man but he exuded an air of determination which was palpable. He also possessed a strikingly piercing gaze which was quite unnerving.
Great story David thanks for sharing your amazing experience, what an honour for you!
I read a really good book about Charles Upham (I think it was called "Mark of the Lion").
A couple of things that I can remember from the book were...
i) His actions warranted the award of three VCs (At least).
ii) After his failed escape attempt the commanding German officer came out to see what was happening.
Upon seeing Charles Upham casually smoking a cigarette whist being caught in the barbed wire fence, He abruptly about faced and went back into his office.
This was followed by awkward period where nobody knew what they were supposed to do. The German guards kept their guns pointed at Charles, awaiting further orders.
After a while the commanding German officer returns with his camera and takes a picture of Charles (The one you see at 7:05). Apparently he could see the funny side of the situation.
Yep - Dad had that book.
I read it as a teen in the '70s
The Guards had orders to shoot escapers. The guard pointed his rifle and was about to shoot him, when Upham pulled out the cigarette, lit it, and told him to F off and get an officer, because he refused to be shot by a private. The other prisoners who were watching were abusing the guard, and a British officer was overheard saying "what nerve", as Upham slowly took out the smoke and lit it. Shows how cool and quick thinking under stress he was.
Rommel said on many occasions that he hated facing New Zealanders, great outdoorsmen and exceptional troops, especially 28th New Zealand infantry regiment, Maori battalion.
Amazing soldiers indeed
Yes and Maori Battalion only got one VC (Te Moananui a Kiwa Ngarimu) but they deserved plenty more. I do believe that at the time it was understood that these men were likely to perform very well, as they did, but not being European, powers that be (were) were not willing to let them be seen as superior so one VC was possibly agreed upon before they went into action.
They don’t like it Upham, what a man, a soldier and a leader
Amazing bravery Carl!
@@PremierHistory most people it’s bravery, Uphams actions seemed normality to save his men. An amazing individual, who should be remembered by all 👍 great video, thank you
Glad you enjoyed it Carl appreciate it
:-D Brilliant :-D
Correct Paul two others who were both Doctors but Upham being the only combatant to be awarded two
Something they failed to mention is his wife's relative was a double VC winner capt noel chavasse A doctor, as for me captain upham greatest achievement was taking the money collected for him and starting a scholarship to help the children of fellow kiwis a true man of honour and humility and some one to try and emulate
Lord Ashcroft recently said ,No frontline Operative will ever earn two V.Cs again ,,,,,,,,,Mr Upham will hold the Absolute Honor in the Perils of world War 2 as being the most Decorated Commonwealth Soldier of the War and only Combat recipient to receive two V.Cs the only other two Incredible recipients being Medical Personnel. Be Proud New Zealand 🇳🇿
I once heard a sort of joke, saying one had to be mad to earn the Victoria Cross to get to one would have to be insane.
In 1996 I arrived in New Zealand. Charles Upham was unknown to me. The statue referred to towards the end of the video is however very well known to me. Mark White is the artist who created the statue clay. Looking back I can now say that it was an honor to cast the bronze version. Bronze casting statues was my job at the time. It took several days to put all the parts together and I look back to a rather nice time with Mark. Once the statue was unveiled I started reading about Charles Upham. He was a remarkable man indeed. A true leader and hero. People in New Zealand should never forget that men like him fought for the freedom we have today. Charles Upham had put all his might into destroying enemy (Nazi Germany). He disliked racism with a vengeance. I can only hope that the statue I helped to create may be a reminder to people what he fought for.
1942: An entire generation of 19-20-somethings resolve to win WW2, no matter the cost.
2021: Starbucks loses internet access and an entire generation of 19-20-somthings shit their pants.
Haha nice
Truth..
When he died (1994?) the whole of New Zealand stopped for two minutes to honour this man. Lest We Forget. RIP
You had to do a lot to earn a VC as a Colonial. This guy certainly did.
100% he did! ALA
He wasn’t a colonel when he earnt them. Only a lieutenant and then Captain. Oops, sorry just saw you said ‘colonial’, not Colonel.
But yes, a lot of prejudice by British officers who think they know everything, then being shown up by the little guy from the antipodes.
Noel chavasse got 2 VC,s in the great war . Another true hero
He is a tribute to his country and the cause of freedom.
Cause of freedom? At what time exactly NZ wasn't free? Also I doubt that you know what tribute means.
That was a wonderful informative video, well presented and produced, well narated, very well done.
And to think the second citation was given in response to a recommendation for 2 more but combined to become one.
So many brave actions, what a man!
Politics intervened. If he was British he would certainly have been awarded a third.
@@terryrack2534 Absolute nonsense
My dad fought with him in the 1st Echelon of the Famous 20th Battalion (A South Island Battalion) in the 2nd NZEF, my dad was in Charlies Company; My dad became a Sergeant and a Tank Commander after being wounded and taken POW in operation Crusader. My mom and dad got very well with Charlie and Molly Upham, but my dad said he was partly mad, and he had to be to do what he did.
My mom and Dad, and Charlie and Molly Upham as well as well as a number of the survivors of the 1st Echelon of the 20th ended up catching up with the survivors of the Fallschirmjager in 1981, the 40th anniversary of the battle of Crete. The Germans put them on a "Right Fuss" my said the food and wine was amazing. I could go on as when I was at University, in the holidays I would come home to the Farm, and when I was of age I was allowed to play waiter in the lounge when dad had his old mates from the 20th come to visit. I wished I recorded the conversations! the 20th Battalion was probably the most highly decorated Battalion in the British Empire; it also suffered 397 KIA out of approximately 1,000 men!
I could go on about Charlie, but let him RIP.
Earning one is, almost, impossible. Winning two, unreal.
Crazy really!
Yeah, most people don't survive what led to them receiving a VC.
Very true Peter unfortunately too many never saw their medals
Yeah, VC....and bar!!
Must have had special tailoring to his uniform - extra large pockets for all those grenades he used so well, plus extra room in the crotch area so his big brass ones wouldn’t chafe too much (there was a war on and only so much material available for brass ones that big!).
What an absolute hero.
classic! True story, he would carry a sack or two of them into battle, grenades were his favorite weapon.
@@waynes9876 he would have made a a great Bootneck or Para, but even without doing so he was still a one man force multiplier, hard not to feel a smidgen of pity for those on the receiving end of his grenades! It might sound an odd question but is there any reference that mention he was a demon bowler on the cricket pitch?
Bloody amazing man.
One of favourite stories about Charles Upham VC and Bar (When he was crossing enemy lines in North Africa): "At one point the vehicle became bogged down in the sand, so Upham coolly ordered some nearby Italian soldiers to push it free. Though they were somewhat surprised to be given an order by one of the enemy, Upham's expression left them in no doubt that he should be obeyed."
Great story Grant! What respect the man had from everyone!
@@PremierHistory All VC winners are clearly very special people, the fact-based accounts of how some VCs were won (like Charles Upham's) are barely believable....
Agreed, some of the feats of bravery described are hard to fathom, but ultimately glad that those actions and the men who took part in them are remembered
@@PremierHistory Late afternoon in November 2014, I was sat in a cafe/restaurant overlooking Red Square in Moscow, and purely by chance (on that particular evening) the Russian's were rehearsing the recreation of the original 1941 military parade on Red Square (prior to the Red Army entering WW2).
So there were 100s of Russian soldiers in full period WW2 costume (including white snow smocks) weapons and vehicles on Red Square - including at least 10 T32 tanks trundling around on the cobbles of Red Square.
It was an absolutely incredible site and like travelling back in time 73 years!
Wow Grant! What a sight that would have been! Would have been like it was in the 40’s, very lucky!
My paternal grandfather Gustav Suhr was in 22 Battalion B'Co with Charlie Upham.
Upham and a platoon of troops from B'co 22btn held Marleime Airfield on Crete while under sustained and heavy attack by German aircraft and Paratroopers.
Eventually they were using German weapons as they had run out of ammo.
My grandfather, Gustav Suhr was the last Bren gunner on Marleime airfield before the retreat.
He and Upham were friends after the war
Great story and insight shaul76239, thanks for sharing your Grandfathers experience!
It's difficult comparing Victoria Crosses with the Medal of Honor. The size of the armies and engagements fought. Maybe the VC's were harder to come by, maybe not. I have read Capt Uphams 'the Mark of the Lion' and his exploits were remarkable. He lived in the area I live in and there is a statue to him in North Canterbury. Thanks for the video.
"The Mark of the Lion" is how I heard of this Grear Warrior over 50 years ago.
It was also my first introduction to Tobruk other than the movie the Desert War in general and Colditz Castile.
May well have made a greater movie than "Saving Private Ryan".
@@dynevor6327 Maybe your remark is addressing someone else's comment. My famiy were in the fighting shortly after war broke out in 1939. US in 1917 for WW1.
I have a theory that because New Zealand is quite a "new" country, that the residents from 100 years ago were tough nuts after pioneering this country and working on farms, etc.
They say he should have received 3 VC’s!
Apparently so! Lots of amazing feats of bravery from him
Tipical kiwis why just win it twice like the rugby World Cup when you can win it 3x
The MAN deserved all the VC's efforts he put in to help ALL of us to not live in a DICKTATOR Dominated Rule. The WORLD will I am afraid to say needs people like this NOW!
Cheers KIWI Brothers, John, Australia.
Absolutely joandar1, he fully deserved all the medals and recognition he got
@@PremierHistory Thanks Cobber! I should also have mentioned we will always have our sporting rivalry and that will not ever stop us from standing together! John.
PS: Reminds me of a line, You are a Better Man than I am Gungidin. If my speeling is wrong, pleeese corekt me. lol.
Glad he was on our side
Indeed!
2:05 Talking about Crete in 1941, shows a scene from Gallipoli in 1915.
He lived not far from me,but never met him unfortunately.When he got out of Colditz he tried to join the Yanks to go into action with them apparently!
Thanks for sharing Geoff! Wow that’s not surprising, what a brave man he was!
I met him a few months before his death, i addressed him as sir charles and he just asked me to drop the "sir"
when he died the service was held at the christchurch anglican cathedral . ( pre earthquake) the church was full, most of the surrounding town square was too.
Lovely Paul, thanks for sharing, true sign of respect that so many turned out for his service
@@PremierHistory it was a fitting thing, now all these years later he would be turning in his grave wondering what the hell happened to nz.
Its not "lootenant" its "left-tennant" for british and commonwealth ranks
I believe he was married in the UK at New Milton, Hampshire, just after the war, while he was in the UK to be awarded his VC's. It was then when my Grandfather (Arthur Upham) met him. All who fought in WW2 were very brave.
Wow Trevor, great story! Thanks for sharing
My home town is Southampton. My 2nd time serving in the British Army, I was based at Marchwood Military Port, in Southampton. Not far from New Milton.
Great soldier but is still underappreciated here in NZ, IMHO.
Great indeed!
Yeah, and a shitty navy ship was named after him. Disgusting
Upham and Nancy Wake, our Govt seems to believe honouring our heroes is glorifying war so they ignore them. Nancy was born in NZ,(Maori on her mothers side) grew up in Australia then went to France before the war. During the war she was on the Gestapos most wanted list and after the war was awarded medals by the UK, France and the USA but in NZ it wsn't until 2006 she was awarded a medal by the RSA and in 2010 a memorial pylon?? near her birthplace in Wellington.
Generally underappreciated is how I'd describe it. Probably because Crete (and at that point) North Africa were fighting a losing battle
NZ has a string of incredible military successes from the Boer War, WW1, WW2, Korea, Malaya, Vietnam, Bosnia, Timor, Afghanistan and few know, fewer teach it or write about it, so it is being sadly forgotten. We should be telling (shouting) our stories "Lest we forget".....
Phenomenal story of strength
& courage 👏👏👏👏👏 RIP
This story was so inspiring that I have ordered the book about Upham's story, Mark of the Lion, it looks like a good read.
Great to hear Spar Ked! Glad you enjoyed the video that much!
There's another one just out, by Tom Scott, an excellent read. My Dad was in the 18th and fought in Greece (wounded), Crete and the desert. When we were kids he'd be putting on his gumboots to go out on the farm and we'd ask "where are you going, Dad?" and he'd invariably say "Up the Blue."
Bloody hell, try explaining it to the wife... coming home with TWO VCs ....😱😂🤣✌🏻
Congratulations on a superb piece. I can only wonder at the character of the man. It seems to me that he combined fearlessness and leadership; they don’t always go together.
I have just subscribed and am now going to look at your other pieces. Not having seen your library yet, can I say that I would like to see pieces on heroes on every side. Irrespective of nationality, the tales of exceptional people should be heard. We owe them that - and so much more
Thanks Theo, really appreciate the support and glad you enjoyed the video. Certainly focusing on individual heroism and incredible tales during wartime is something that will feature in videos on the channel. On both sides of conflict and various wars
What a dear man. Thank you so much for the people who came after.
Indeed Jeffrey
If you can get a copy, read Mark of the Lion. The story of Upham. Great book. Read it many times. But then read just about any book, including Infantry Brigadier, by Kippenberger, or any about the men who fought and they are a fascinating view into those days and the men who fought.
I’ve heard it is very fascinating, will have to try and locate a copy!
That's how you stick it UPHAM. We need an army of these people...though I feel sure...luck played a big part. Unbelievable effort though, a great man.
This man was born with the secret of the valiant.
Born to serve and show others the meaning of selflessness
This is the same dude that was used to help create the super serum, which helped create Captain Steve Rogers. True story!
Easy to see he came from "Down Under". R.I.P. Charles.
“Down under” is Australia. Your average Kiwi would be offended if you said he was an Aussie, and the same applies if you called an Aussie a “Kiwi”. 🤬😤. Even though they fought together as ANZAC’s in some places there’s a lot of rivalry between them. Damn colonials!
@@richardlamb3608
To me "down under" covers both of us. I've been to NZ and loved it. I also loved your warbird museums.
Rivalry goes without saying, lol, but we both give as good as we get and all in fun but I was ashamed after a certain under arm bowl and I'm not even a sportsman. Have a good one mate.
@@richardlamb3608
Hi mate, looks like my last reply got cut short a bit. We have rivalry all be it in fun although I was ashamed after a certain underarm bowl, not that I'm into sport. Stay safe mate.
A very brave man! God Bless him and others like him who fought for our freedom! I'm so grateful to them
I stayed with Upham's daughter and her husband, a real character in his own right and still have a photograph of me holding Upham's miniatures which have the VC and Bar. What happened to his actual VC is another interesting story...
Oh wow Robert amazing story! Interesting about his actual VC then..
So come on then tell us the story, because I for one would love to hear it!
As history has said out of an army only 4 to 6% will win the war for you. Respect to the hero for being one of the 4%.
some men are born without a pain response in their brain. This guy was born without fear
Agreed Isaac, his exploits were amazing
An element of luck is needed too. Many brave men died attempting heroic feats
True Chris
How could anyone dislike this? I'll be in Amberly tomorrow and will check out Charles Upham's memorial .
Both my Grandfather and Great Grandfather were on Crete serving in 19th Infantry and Armour Regiment My Great Grandfather commanding the Battalion as the Commanding officer was wounded in the retreat from Greece my Grandfather a private in the same Btn he was captured on Crete
Always good to see people who know the history of their family, thanks Zayne
About 80% of metal honor recipients received theirs posthumously. There are very few that have earned more than one. Tom Custer won both of his during the Civil War.Although he survived the Civil War, he later perished at little bighorn With older brother George. Victoria Cross the Victoria cross is earned under similar circumstances. It’s amazing that Captain Upham survived into old age.
I would suggest the other way around. The US Medal of Honor (US spelling) is comparable to the Victoria Cross.
Yeah could put it that way too
@@PremierHistory Which is the older award?
@@leeds85 the VC came first
@@PremierHistory The MOH is harder to get than a VC also Upham spent the rest of the war sitting in Colditz Prison
@@tomknight3243 You're kidding, right? There have been 1,355 recipients of the VC and 3,508 of the MoH.
Two things stand out here in gaining both VC's , one shear bravery and the ability to practice his craft owing to a world war.
Wonderful achievement; what a brave man. The lefties better keep their hands off that statue and the history books that record his heroic feats.
I’m sure his story won’t be lost in the history books!
Don't worry the south island in nz is very different to the north island the further south the more real men the idiots normally reside in Auckland
Plenty of "lefties" fought (and died) against fascism mate.....why would they be bothered about an innocuous statue?
Upham was absolutely deserving of both his VCs and more.
Sad to miss out the other two double VC winners because they wern't combatants. In a way and without detracting from Upham's marvelous exploits, they are more deserving than a combatant because they were not armed but saved lives. Both of these other double VCs were doctors, one in the Boer War the other during WW1 (KIA).
Surgeon Captain Arthur Martin-Leake and Captain Noel Chavasse were their names.
What can I say about this superhuman being? If only I had such courage.
Can’t say much, he performed some amazing feats
Hear hear
I reckon you never know until you’re put to the test. Our forefathers fought so that we wouldn’t have to be put to the test.
So true David well said
How do you know you don't have such courage? Courage comes out when people have a need for it. Far better to never have to face the circumstances that require you to endanger your life.
Upham was a humble bloke and shunned admiration and publicity after the war. Wanting everyone to know his fellow soldiers he fought alongside that deserved the credit. Arguably he's not New Zealand's most decorated soldier. That title could go to James Waddell a Kiwi who was in The French Foreign Legion. Upham is certainly the most famous though. Thanks for keeping his legacy alive.
CAN ANYONE IMAGINE TODAY'S SNOWFLAKES DOING ANYTHING LIKE THIS
Not a chance!
Someone just may surprise ... Just like Charles Upham did... it's how heroes are found.
True Harry
@@harrycurrie9664 Nice. Given a challenge, so many people will step up.
I absolutely can. read the citation for C/Sgt Johnson Beharry. VC.
2 VC's don't seem enough, what a man.
Two was not enough. On the other hand it was a huge burden for him.
No way was it enough! His exploits in Crete alone could have won him more than one. But believe he was such a modest man when it came to the awards, a true hero and frankly not enough people know of his story.
@@PremierHistory Well I applaud you for putting the time and effort into making this video which helps keep his memory alive, two VC's its an incredible story worthy of a huge movie budget. I would love to see his story told on the big screen some day.
Thanks Ryan! The channel is all about helping people learn about stories just like Charles Upham. Hopefully more people find out about this incredible man 👍🏻