To the memory of Captain Edward UNWIN. V.C., C.B., C.M.G., Royal Navy, of Wootton Lodge, Ellastone. 1864 – 1950. He died 19 April 1950, at rest in Grayshott, Surrey.
Served in the Royal Navy 1897-1922. He was awarded the Victoria Cross when commanding H.M.T. River Clyde at the ‘V’ Beach landing, Seddel Bahr, Gallipoli on 25 April 1915. Husband of Evelyn Agnes nee Carew.
This plaque is in St Peter’s church, Ellastone, Staffordshire.
London Gazette dated 16 August 1915
Supplement to London Gazette dated 16 August 1915.
The below is connected to the event at Gallipoli 25 and 26th April 1915.
https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/29264/supplement/8129
SPECIAL RECOMMENDATIONS.
Commander Edward Unwin, R.N.
While in "River Clyde," observing that the lighters which were to form the bridge to the shore had broken adrift, Commander Unwin left the ship and under a murderous fire attempted to get the lighters into position. He worked on until, suffering from the effects of cold and immersion, he was obliged to return to the ship, where he was wrapped up in blankets. Having in some degree recovered, he returned to his work against the doctor's order and completed it. He was later again attended by the doctor for three abrasions caused by bullets, after which he once more left the ship, this time in a lifeboat, to save some wounded men who were lying in shallow water near the beach.
He continued at this heroic labour under continuous fire, until forced to stop through pure physical exhaustion.
http://www.victoriacross.org.uk/bbunwin.htm
