The Most Ruthless Australian Who Ever Served | Super VC Lawrence McCarthy

It is August 1918, World War I is not far from its’ end, but fierce, bloody battles still rage across the Western Front. The stagnant trench fighting has been replaced with a war of movement and during this phase many impressive acts of valor are recorded. However, perhaps the most awe-inspiring of all these deeds are those accomplished by the man who would become known as “Super VC”. And so today on the Ulysses Files we cover the extraordinary story of Australian Lieutenant Lawrence Dominic McCarthy.
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ULYSSES FILES is a KZbin channel dedicated to showcasing primarily military history content (plus certain other topics) in short documentary form, featuring interesting and quirky characters and stories from the late 19th Century on through the 1st and 2nd World Wars to the present.
It is not always possible to find 100% accurate footage to illustrate these cinematic short films, but where possible ULYSSES FILES strives to keep it authentic. Background music will always attempt to provide appropriate emotional mood.
Topics and content are thoroughly researched and portrayed in their historical context for both educational and entertainment purposes. We try our best to be accurate in terms of the data in our short films, but are not experts in all areas and are always learning new things, so if we get something wrong - please feel free to contact us. Also if you have an idea you believe may fit the scope of our channel - again - do not hesitate to let us know.
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[@roscoewhite3793]

I had the good fortune to meet Lawrence McCarthy in his later years. He was a gentle and witty host who told many stories of trench life and mateship that I truly regret not writing down. He also sang songs for us, although Florence would gently reprove him for trying to sing "Mademoiselle From Armentieres" because she thought the song rude. I have some mementos that he left me, including a copy of his battalion history, a set of miniatures of his medals, and two photographs that I'll have to explain in more detail. What follows I heard this first-hand from Florence. In 1942, Lawrence McCarthy was the caretaker at the building in Melbourne, Victoria, chosen to be the headquarters for the newly-arrived General Douglas MacArthur. Comes the day, and Lawrence is there with Florence, dressed in their best, to meet the General. MacArthur arrives with his subordinates, and moves to greet them... and to the astonishment of the American staff officers, he salutes Lawrence! Later on, when the Americans are settled in, some of the subordinates ask discreetly about MacArthur's salute, and learn why; Lawrence was wearing his medals, and MacArthur recognised the VC. MacArthur has come in for criticism over the years, but I'll always cut him some slack for that moment. The photographs, which are hanging on my living room wall, are a signed portrait of MacArthur, and one that shows Lawrence, wearing his medals, with seven of MacArthur's staff officers, all of whom wrote their names at the bottom of the photograph. I have made sure to leave them to the Australian War Memorial in my will. Thank you for giving me the chance to tell the story of this remarkable man and this remarkable meeting.

[@UlyssesFiles]

My goodness Roscoe, we have never had a comment like yours on our channel before, granted it’s a fairly new one at about 10 months old. Your unique recollection of that story is priceless, and it’s a pity we can’t see the photo memorabilia you mention. Yes, MacArthur has come in for a lot of criticism in the past, but your story straight from the lips of Lawrence himself definitely softens the man’s image in my eyes too. I loved doing the research for McCarthy. He was a humble character as well as being extremely brave. We are looking at some more Aussies cut from similar cloth - Albert Jacka, “Mad Harry” Murray to name a couple. Can’t wait to get them posted on here. Thanks so much for your unique comments on the lovely man that was Lawrence McCarthy 🙌🏻

[@pweter351]

Wow thanks for sharing these men built this country with their sacrifice

[@tracyanne8616]

It was lovely to hear your story and reminiscence. Thank you very much for sharing. You honour Lawrence MacArthur.

[@peterjames9610]

Wow! What a legacy that he left to you and then for you to leave to Australia, thank you. And what a man, particularly given that these were tough and rugged individuals, he was a real man amongst real men.

[@jacktattis]

That was very good of MacArthur

[@buryitdeep]

I have worked with Australian soldiers, they are big, fast and strong with gallows humour. Relentless, tough and outstanding mateship.

[@FieldDay-cj3tv]

Indeed

[@jw451]

best of the best mate .We have big shoes to fill. Think Kokoda and Tobruk. FIRST to stop both the Germans and the japs DEAD in their tracks in ww2. They say Scottish, Ghukas and Aussies. You REALLY want them on your side

[@williemrebekahmaclutchie-e7654]

SAS tough men.

[@steventosi8067]

🍻🇦🇺

[@noeltewhaiti4403]

Same here fucking Larkins and great soldiers

[@robinaboy]

I’m an Aussie and I’m ashamed to say I’d never heard of this man or his story. That’s an indictment on our governments and schools. What a man.

[@tuwheratiaihaka2744]

I’ve grown up in Perth and not once ever learned in high school S&E (social and humanities) about this soldier. It’s a shame that we glamorise celebrities but never once, do we ever show the proper respect that some of our men had faced during the two great wars.

[@micksmith-vt5yi]

Same and i grew up thinking USA saved Australia in WW2 but then while trying to research my grandfather's records and where he served and having to read all Pacific battles found out us Australian's did a lot and America lies and spreads misinformation about the wars.

[@SpankzVonSpankington]

@@tuwheratiaihaka2744 I lived in York for many years when I was younger, and also never heard of the man. very fun to see the photos used here though, I remember that church very clearly, still standing strong and clean to this day.

[@gg_sam7847]

I'd rather learn about indigenous Australian culture and history than just one dude in the biggest war in history. As someone who was in the Australian schooling system less than a decade ago we are already taught much more than necessary about the world wars, and practically nothing about any of the rest of our history

[@robinaboy]

@@gg_sam7847 the world wars shaped the modern world and everyone should be taught a lot about them. Indigenous culture didn’t make a dent in world history and has no relevance to the modern world. Nice to learn but not at the expense of the wars and their geopolitical fallout.

[@megacheese]

"There was a VC in everybody, given the chance" This is such a beautiful statement, so many men lost so many stories gone, truly the greatest generation.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes v true!

[@allanmiles5396]

Australia is well served with men who rise to challenges. Our military has a history that demonstrates initiative along with a dashing approach to extreme acts of bravery. I travelled around Australia with the portraits of our Victoria Cross recipients to exhibit them to the population as a project to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Anzac Day 1915-2015. The exhibition was shown to over 1 million Australians in large venues and small Town Halls. A trip lasting 2 1/2 years covering all states and territories and travelling over 20,000kms. A privilege for me and my team

[@UlyssesFiles]

That was a brilliant project. I’ve never heard of anything similar here in the U.K.

[@BigLittleWoodsx]

I’m sat at the Brisbane Anzac Memorial, Australia whilst writing this comment. I am a 27 year old UK backpacker and recommend anyone to visit the monument to pay their respects. It’s a warm night here and I got the recommendation as I sat down at the bench next to the Queensland Bottle tree. Thoroughly enjoyed the video.

[@jwmurphyccsis]

Another great Australian no one has heard of. Thank you for bringing this history to us and shame on Australia's education system.

[@bobwitt3148]

I’m disappointed an ashamed to have never heard wolf this brave an patriotic Australian soldier !! Why isn’t these soldiers and brave men mentioned or taught in our schools as if wasn’t for these Soldiers we would not have the peace we all have enjoyed since 1945 ❤️

[@UlyssesFiles]

We will be posting more short video docus on other notable Aussie/NZ characters soon incl Albert Jacka, “Mad Harry” Murray, Cyril Basset, etc. so stay tuned and hopefully see you again soon…

[@chrisrabbitt]

Two to cover would be Dasher Wheatley and Keith Payne, especially Keith Payne. He is the recipient of the VC as well as the US Distinguished Service Cross and Silver Star. Both were exceptional men who made one hell of a mark with the Americans, which for Aussies isn't easy to do.

[@bengray2628]

other notable Aussie actions to cover would be the Light Horse completing the last cavalry charge in history at Beersheba against the Turks, the siege of Tobruk in WW2 (Rommel's first defeat), and the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea against the Japanese where a group of mostly reservists held the fort until the battle-hardened troops who had fought in Europe arrived.

[@gordonstorch8561]

How about GRISLEY TOWNER as well .Colonel Harry Murray in ww2 commanded the 26th militia battalion before it was taken over by the AIF . Grisley Towner was his 2 IC . 2 VC WINNERS COMMANDING the one unit at the same time .

[@NPC-fl3gq]

Albert Jacka was an absolute madman.

[@gaius_enceladus]

NZer here. A truly brave man, not hesitating for a moment before doing what needed to be done! Outstanding!

[@stephenjohnson6632]

So are our Kiwi brothers in every conflict we have shared with them . We, aussie, know our Kiwi brothers always have our back when the going gets tough.

[@Jariid]

@@stephenjohnson6632 and always will

[@Suitablygeneric]

An Aussie here, and must acknowledge the Kiwis too. Themselves with amazing VC heroics, including Charles Hazlitt Upham as the only combatant in history to receive 2 VCs (the only other two people to receive 2 while utterly inspiring were medics), and understand that he truly earned three but was denied as he already had two. Salute to all VC recipients.

[@bradgardner4299]

Onya Bro !!

[@gfreeman9843]

I've read of Upham in the book The mark of the lion. Great man.​@@Suitablygeneric

[@frankurquhart-dj9vu]

It's good to hear about Australian heroes it's like they are forgotten

[@stuwhiteman3810]

Thanks mate for giving the Aussies some credit they did some amazing things in WW1, WW2, Korea and Vietnam and even the later wars in the middle east. In the history books we hardly even get a mention. If Lawrence were British or American there would have been ten movies made about him. Thank you.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Very true!

[@arslongavitabrevis5136]

Very true! Had he been British, the would have made 1 film about him, had he been American, they would have made 10 films!

[@H4CK61]

@@arslongavitabrevis5136Name me a British film portraying a British hero? American yes.

[@shanevillis4079]

That's because it was the British and Americans who won both world wars, with a bit of help from some smaller nations.

[@matthewbaker1088]

You summed it up perfectly

[@jacknicholson2981]

My Father served in World War 2 and after the war joined the NSW Railways as a shunter I too became a shunter and worked Dad and his mates Best of all though was when Dad and I went to retirement do’s he introduced me to the men he’d worked under who were mostly World War 1 veterans What absolutely humble and wonderful gents they were and like was said there was a VC hovering in all of them

[@UlyssesFiles]

Oh great story there - so fortunate to have experienced that 🙌🏻

[@MorrisonLee-wt2jp]

Thank you for posting this amazing story. I'm an Aussie, former soldier, and interested in military history. I am shocked I never heard anybody ever mention LM before this moment! What an astonishing story. Respect.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thanks for commenting Lee, yes he was unbelievable- and so many other fantastic Aussie soldiers too incl Albert Jacka of course and ‘Mad Harry’ (we are doing something soon on Mad Harry)…

[@nedmccarroll8462]

I have never know of him a unsung HERO of Australia, thank you

[@Vgallo]

He’s a character in the anzacs miniseries. Pretty sure he became the mayor of Fitzroy after the war

[@BusyMEOW]

An Australian by your side in war is a day you'll live to remember 🇦🇺

[@bradwaghorn8955]

So good to hear the exploits of great Australian soldiers. John Monash too. The most competent allied general of the entire war.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes he was very good indeed 🍻

[@allansbullet]

Along with William Grant and Harry Chauvel of Australia at Beersheba, and Julian Byng of Canada at Vimy Ridge.

[@indigocheetah4172]

Sir John Monash, is still remembered to this day.

[@allansbullet]

@@indigocheetah4172 Monash University in Melbourne is named after him, isn't it? Hard to forget!

[@indigocheetah4172]

,@@allansbullet, of course. I meant that people are still interested. I was at work and a friend has an autobiography of Monash. A few wanted to read it after he finished.

[@tedmartin5402]

You never hear about him because the man was an aussie.

[@stevetaylor8298]

True, I have never heard of him before, I'll look to see if anything is named after him. There should be.

[@terryfoyfoy7926]

I'm a Brit I've heard of him

[@ijm1963]

No There are hundreds of VCs, very few of them are actually talked about enough for people to recognise their names.

[@bradbarker8286]

You never hear that Jock Lewes was Australian either. Australian's don't glorify individual war acts. The soldiers find it off-putting.

[@davidleonard1813]

Heard of Kieth Pane. But he has a rest stop on the Hume named after him and a Veterans Hostel as well

[@iandibley8032]

What a simply heroic soldier , an amazing Australian. I don't think they make'm like that anymore, he appeared totally oblivious to the dangers, just achieving the outcome.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes and v humble too. Heroic and a great personality

[@jacktattis]

I think brave men arise when the need is there Regardless of Era

[@kevbullock8313]

A true courageous aussie digger and a hero,,thankyou for our freedom brother❤️

[@grekiely6245]

Thank you. What a Bonzer Bloke, :) And, his attitude, given the right time and place anyone can get a VC. The troops will follow a leader like that to hell and back and fight to get in line to repeat it. Lieutenant McCarthy, thank you for your Service. RIP Sir.

[@_Sammy_J]

People like this man were deciding factors in these conflicts. My condolences to those who achieved greater victories, although struck from history by denial of the Victoria Cross. The results prove their valor. All we have are their stories passed down through families. Rest in peace ANZACs of Beersheeba. We Will Remember Them. Lest We Forget.

[@frankmorris2603]

These great selfless men deserve recognition and respect. Thanks for your presentation.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes definitely, thanks 🍻

[@paulclinch8833]

Thanks for taking about an Aussie

[@UlyssesFiles]

It’s an honour to be honest. Men like these don’t grow on trees 🙌🏻

[@karlrobbers]

@@UlyssesFiles no, they don't indeed, and given the recent trend of trying brave men in the media as well as persecution by their unworthy superiors for carrying out borders in hostile territories, I doubt we shall see their like again. To perform Lawrence McCarthy's feats today, would require clearance by a legal and cultural sensitivity team, and of course, he would need to ensure that no enemy were harmed or even mildly upset. How soon we forget that we may need our fighting men at any time. Thanks for telling this story.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Cheers Karl 🙌🏻🍻

[@adriang6259]

Great video. As an Aussie it was great to hear the story. We have a hundred VC winners and some of those stories are just as ridiculous. Stories of the men who missed out like Charlie McCallum, who covered the retreat of his platoon with two guns, are just as harrowing.

[@UlyssesFiles]

I know some eg Albert Jacka, Mad Harry, but not come across Charlie McCallum. Will look into his story. Thanks Adrian. Yes so many crazy stories of amazing Aussie heroism to look into

[@UlyssesFiles]

Another interesting fella to look into - cheers! 🍻

[@Kingmick58]

@@UlyssesFiles Hey mate. Charlie was a Bren gunner. Held back to let his mates escape. He was still firing when they killed him. Sorry, when i go to the Australian War Museum i get teary. All those photos in one room of the dead. I still don't like them. Just me mate.

[@UlyssesFiles]

I was looking into him, another absolutely selfless fella!

[@mattlester2176]

​@@UlyssesFilescheck out the battle of lone pine at Gallipoli. I believe 7 VC medals were awarded to Aussies over the 4 days of fighting.

[@kinarrakid5036]

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.

[@mickabikhair675]

Lest we forget

[@benjamincampbell3361]

lest we forget.

[@keyboard_warrior101]

Lest we forget.

[@mikeoxmall69420]

Lest we forget

[@brandtteale1885]

A well-told story of a genuine hero. Thank you.

[@TomSmith-lf8tr]

To hear an English accent read this story is to appreciate our shared heritage.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thanks, appreciate that 🍻

[@who-gives-a-toss_Bear]

It's AI.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Nope it’s not. But I’ll take that as a compliment 😆😅

[@FieldDay-cj3tv]

English, Irish, Scottish...... And in WW2 some even of Prussian heritage

[@cooldewd35]

​​@@FieldDay-cj3tvGerman Australians (many from Prussia) were the largest non Anglo Celtic component in the AIF in WW1.

[@christopherbrodie6987]

He competed with a lot of Australians Wild Bill Murray , Percy Black, Albert Jacka, the list is seemingly endless. There is a line in the third film of Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings from the Dwarf King “Useful boys in a fight” that was really about the Anzacs.

[@UlyssesFiles]

I like that line - yep v appropriate. Know about Albert Jacka but not the other names you mention. Will look them up thanks 🙌🏻

[@AnthonyOMulligan-yv9cg]

Don't forget "Mad O'Meara" 👍

[@UlyssesFiles]

Got it cheers Anthony 🙌🏻

[@cooldewd35]

"useful boys in a fight" sums up the 39th Battalion at Kokoda. A militia battalion of armed teenagers with virtually no training.

[@UlyssesFiles]

That sure was an epic fight!

[@bigs1546]

The attack on the machine gun site was fictionalised in the Australian Min-series The "Anzacs" still a great watch today. It uses the real life situations of many Australian troops and attributes them to the characters in the series - but as Aussies we all knew the "story" was basically truth. His selfless legend lives on.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Ah I didn’t know that. I’ll try to see if it’s here on KZbin

[@keithcarter9396]

I have enormous respect and love for those brave men who served with valor and bravery on all sides. Lest We Forget

[@UlyssesFiles]

Lest We Forget

[@jasonotto9126]

Love these stories especially this one as he is from my home state. WA is amazing and it seems the people past and present are not much different, humble but prepared to get the shit done no matter how bad it is ❤

[@Ps119]

This guy achieved a military impossibility and survived certain death. If this was a fictional story no one in their right mind would believe it could ever happen; just amazing. Needs a statue in a prominent place.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes you’re right. Unbelievable exploits.

[@mark_22222]

Absolutely amazing man

[@Iguessthislldo]

A VC in all of us, but only earned by the best of us. Vale.

[@murraymclean9072]

I'd heard of LT. McCarthy, but not how he gained his VC..the courage of these men is truly staggering..and when the war ends, just goes back to Australia and gets on with his life..they don't make them like that any more.

[@ronjohnson1658]

Excellent documentary of a very brave Australian soldier

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thank you Ron 🙌🏻🍻

[@ekkat5070]

I love going to the Australian War Memorial to visit the VC honours section and read about the heroic exploits of the recipients. Can spend hours in there. Thanks for this video.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thanks for watching 🤓🙌🏻

[@johnnyz2378]

Just as an aside, Capt Albert Jacka, who was briefly mentioned in the video, is widely recognised as the AIF’s greatest soldier. He won his VC for an epic, almost single handed, battle at Gallipoli (possibly at Lone Pine), but those that witnessed the action at Pozieres (I hope I spelled that right!!), along with another action later in the war (that I can’t remember the details of) that he was awarded the Military Cross and Bar for, reckoned that they both put his actions at Gallipoli to shame, but because they weren’t witnessed by a senior officer, neither met the criteria for a recommendation for a VC. To this day, the 14th Battalion of the ADF call themselves “Jacka’s Mob.”

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes Jacka is another legend. I hear that “Mad Harry Murray is a contender for that? What do you think? We’ll make something on both of them soon. Great comment thanks! 🙌🏻🍻

[@murraytorney2222]

I'd never heard of him but he is just another of the many many brave young men who went to war RIP Sir

[@maxroberts7393]

What a fighter! Physically fit. Quick thinking, Calm. Impressive what that combination can do in battle.

[@MikiBlue]

I am a proud Australian and hope worthy of super VC.

[@lapualapua3591]

We need more men like him than never before today !!! Lest We Forget

[@duff107]

A aussie hero Proud of all our fighting forces Allways will be

[@dallasreid7755]

Good God! I am surprised I never knew about this action. Absolutely amazing.

[@oztin955]

Just one of many great Australian VC recipients of the Great War. Have a read of the service dispatches of Lt Joseph Maxwell widely viewed as 2nd most awarded Australian of The Great War and my great grandfather

[@UlyssesFiles]

Was just looking him up - another great Aussie legend he is

[@vicalicous9892]

As a proud Australian whose grandfather's fought in the second World war I am filled with absolute Pride

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thanks to Keiran aka @crocodiledundee8685 for recommending we look at this amazing chap 👍

[@preacherman85379]

Definitely a SUPERMAN, and we are thankful he was on our side.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes absolutely 💯

[@geoffwaterman6560]

Perhaps with a dash of pinky luck.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Definitely 🍻

[@roysimmons3549]

Terrific bravery and modest as well.

[@nuadsilverhand]

Thank you for this, is it is rear for the 'English/Poms' to have anything good, or anything at all to say about an Australia in either world wars. And when we did something useful we are always referred to as 'Commonwealth Forces' and so becoming almost invisible to historical writing. And if you want to understand more of the Australian experience in WW1 have a good look at Sir John Monash. Who was probably disliked in some British quarters, for not only being Australian but also because he wasn't a professional soldier, being an Engineer in civil life but also be Jewish. Though in truth some Australians hated him for that too! But a great man an worth your time. Thanks again.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thanks - appreciate your comments. Agree with you there, also we plan to make a short program on Monash - exceptional Aussie leader that he was 🙌🏻🍻

[@user-ro9zx8mk5h]

It makes me so proud that a country that united in 1901 came together and made great men even greater, I salute all of you, Lest we Forget

[@brianmarch8826]

I enjoyed your telling of this story very much. My Grandfather served on the Western Front for 2 1/2 years with the Australian Artillery 47th Battery 12th AFA. I read and watch everything I can about the Allies on the Western Front and have subscribed to The Ulysses Files. Keep up the good work it is very much appreciated

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thanks very much Brian - great to have you on board. We’ll be looking at other Aussie legends from that time period including our next offering - “Mad” Harry Murray, so see you then 🙌🏻🍻

[@nifty1940]

My two uncles were at Galipolli and then the Western front. Both were wounded several times, gassed and blown up in their trenches, but, miraculously, survived. Their heroism just to be there, wanting to give their lives for us, is way beyond my understanding. Good for your g'pa mate. They were made different then.

[@brianmarch8826]

Can't wait cheers@@UlyssesFiles

[@UlyssesFiles]

That’s so poignant - your uncles were amazing. Let we forget 🙌🏻

[@davidmcclelland9263]

Wow great bravery, righteous bravery they're serving every day they're all around us.

[@homebrandrules]

thankyou for making this. i recently found out i have a VC recipient in my family( by marriage) sadly he died a week after winning the VC. Sgt. Lewis McGee Battle of Broonseinde ww1

[@UlyssesFiles]

Ah he stormed that mg post with just a revolver and all alone. Unbelievable - an incredible feat. His VC was published in the London Gazette. Thanks for this 🍻

[@homebrandrules]

@@UlyssesFiles thankyou, and now thanx to you i learnt something more about him. (edit addition. that it was in the london gazzette)

[@billyoungtheblade6120]

Their was a truly brave man who through adversity in his young life joined the army and become a hero in every sense of the word who got a VC maybe everybody who was with him should have got one. I salute you sir

[@3pipper]

Bloody Aussie, can you imagine what he would have done if he had not lost his three fingers… A true - L E G E N D - indeed

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes bloody amazing 👌🏻

[@AustNRail]

Thank you for creating this video and sharing the heroic tales of this man.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@user-hz9hn1gr2h]

My dad really enjoyed this story. Keep them coming

[@UlyssesFiles]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@weekendwithbevoblog2171]

Absolute hero. Thanks for the video.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thanks 🍻

[@AdamTube12345]

Thank you for the video. Grateful to learn about Lawrence McCarthy. He and I have the same last name and are from the same area. Not only that my Poppa, Len McCarthy, who served with ADF during WW2 as a medic, met my future Nanna on the train home from the war with the maiden name Lawrence. This video was much appreciated

[@UlyssesFiles]

Wow some coincidences there! Beautiful story too. Thank you 😊

[@TheChivasRegal]

Awesome story. True Valour.

[@jonesy279]

As someone with some ties to 16 Battalion and particularly D Company, this man is a true legend.

[@crocodiledundee8685]

For anyone interested in reading more about this amazing man, you can read the following: Victoria Cross: Australia’s Finest And The Battles They Fought by Anthony Staunton Australians On The Western Front 1918: Volume Two: Spearheading The Great British Offensive by David W. Cameron The Great War by Les Carlyon

[@UlyssesFiles]

Excellent recommendations my friend 👍🏻

[@turbolife5912]

Love your work mate 👍🏻 William Atherden was the last survivor of the 1854 eureka stockade after jumping ship in Geelong Bay 1852 at 14 yrs and walking to Ballarat to work as a Gold miner until the uprising and many successful years after

[@UlyssesFiles]

Sounds an interesting character!

[@shdw.206]

Even as an Australian I dont know him. My friends are probably the same. These men need to be talked about more, taught about in schools more, and celebrated more

[@user-qz4ht8jk1q]

Thanks for sharing the story!!

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thanks for watching!

[@aidanwalsh3930]

Awesome Courage & Gallantry. Great History explained.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thank you kindly Aidan! 🙌🏻🍻

[@aidanwalsh3930]

@@UlyssesFiles Love your content ✨ ❤ 👏 Keep it going!

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thanks very much much Aidan, you’re much appreciated! 😍🙌🏻

[@pweter351]

Wow, I know many Australian VC winners but hadn't heard of him Monash was easily the Best General of the war First to use combined arms etc

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes Monash was an amazing general. V innovative 🙌🏻

[@bengray2628]

@@UlyssesFiles he was a civil engineer rather than a "career officer", plus from a Jewish Prussian family background, and he started in artillery in the civilian militia so the fact he made general was amazing in the culture of the times (anglo-British). It was his engineering thought process and organising skills that led to the first real use of total co-ordination of troops, artillery, tanks and aircraft in a manner designed to reduce casualties rather than as cannon-fodder like so many generals just "sending them over the top" into no-mans land.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes he makes for interesting reading, an outstanding general

[@bradbarker8286]

Thanks for this! Australians don’t tend to know much about our individual war heroes. It is culturally frowned upon in the Aus military to publicise individual acts. Sometimes, they will leak out.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Cheers Brad, yes that’s true. It’s kind of cool in a way, but glad you agree that these men deserve some recognition 🙌🏻

[@BRETTYZCAR]

Thank you for this amazing story of gallantry from one tough Aussie. It sounds like through the comments you’ll be a busy boy covering more legendary Australians. Here is another that is surely worth covering. Warrant Officer 2 Kevin Arthur “Dasher” Wheatley VC(posthumous). Lest We Forget. Liked & subscribed.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Ah thanks Bretty - it’s great getting these suggestions- priceless and you bet we’ll add yours to the list - yep it’s getting longer 😜😂🍻

[@UlyssesFiles]

He earned his VC in Vietnam- yes posthumously. Was just reading his citation. What a selfless character…

[@ibpopp]

Digger Wheatley's story should be told to every boy and girl in Australia. His sacrifice was truly memorable.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Agree - we will make telling his story here on this a channel a priority 👌🏻

[@BRETTYZCAR]

@@UlyssesFiles Oh wow, thank you for responding to my suggestion. His story is one of true valour and of unbreakable loyalty. One that should never be forgotten.

[@ericgrace9995]

One of the great things about Australian/ Canadian units was how other ranks could be commissioned as officers, unlike the class bound British Army .

[@allansbullet]

True. My grandfather started WW1 as a Private in the 43rd Battalion, Cameron Highlanders of Canada. He was the only man in the entire Regiment to start the war as a Private, and finish the war as a decorated Commissioned Officer. He was a Lieutenant when he won his Military Cross, and that is hanging with his other medals in a display frame and his photo on my livingroom wall. He then joined up again for WW2 as a Captain, and rose to Major, training troops in Canada before they went to Europe. Not bad for a Private! In the British Army that wouldn't have happened!

[@patrickaussieMilartry]

WoW my great Uncle Author Hecker was 16 when he volunteered. He was in the 7th Battalion and is buried where this famous man was wounded the day after his well deserved honoured the rank rank second left tenant. My brave uncle was wounded 6 times and went back to the front with his mates every time he was healed. He sadly died after being hit with shrapnel and a machine gun round. It took him 2 days to die. He had turned 18 and the war finished 4 weeks later. Makes me cry with such strong HONOUR. That to me was 100% brave as well. A very tuff Lad who loved his MATES AND HIS COUNTRY. BIT OF A RARE COMMODITY THESE DAYS ? Thousands of stories the same but different. How sad such beautiful boys and girls they were . They went over the wall knowing they are going to die. My Lord such love in such madness.🇦🇺🇦🇺❤️👍🥹

[@UlyssesFiles]

Such sad times, and these men should be remembered always for their ultimate sacrifice, so it’s good to see these stories in the comments… ❤️

[@patrickaussieMilartry]

@@UlyssesFiles Thanks Buddy my whole family have been military Since the NewZealand Māori Wars. I want to go to France to pay my respects. The lad hasn’t been visited for over 105 years . Thats far too long for a kid who gave his life. It’s so sad. But the only good of it all is at least his resting with some of his mates. That gives some solace. Thank you I look forward to more content. Thank you sir for keeping the stories alive and remembered.

[@UlyssesFiles]

A great family tradition there of service, Patrick, yes I hope you make it over to France to visit him. Thanks so much for your kind words - hope to cover many more of these outstanding characters in time… 🙌🏻🍻🍻

[@randyb3468]

Thank you for sharing!!..👏

[@UlyssesFiles]

No problem 😊

[@ozzmanzz]

Thank you for posting this

[@justjosie1163]

Thank you as always for a riveting and quality production. I will admit that I had never heard of this remarkable gentlemen.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Thanks Josie. Yes hadn’t heard of him either - he was recommended - and what a soldier. Humble fella too, as these VC types so often seem to be.

[@justjosie1163]

@UlyssesFiles Yes, I agree that from my readings, the humble ones are usually the same ones who step up. Along with those who don't seem to fit in during peace time. Thank you again.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes absolutely 💯.

[@user-dd9tc4zz8j]

96 Australians have been awarded the Victoria Cross. Even today, the population of Australia is only 28 million.

[@joshuamcg3752]

Finally someone talking about this man I’m loosely related to him and have heard all the stories and think he was an amazing man

[@UlyssesFiles]

He was surely that and more. What an honour it must be to be related to him!

[@joshuamcg3752]

@@UlyssesFiles it is I remember going to a memorial about him with my granddad when I was young and it was brilliant although I remember the story going him running across the top of the trenches to the most forward friendly line and from there tunnelling to the German line but that might just be my memory

[@UlyssesFiles]

I always wonder what the reality is of these stories, as I sometimes see differences, even though subtle, in the telling in different records. The Wikipedia entry with dates seems different to the Australian War Memorial entries, for example, in the account of the Mouquet Farm attack.

[@patrickgiles-ou1dp]

An amazing human being 🙏

[@FieldDay-cj3tv]

Thank you West Ozzy mentality Very good No nonsense Little bs Tough And versatile

[@kevinquinn6107]

What a brave man .

[@MarioGoatse]

Fats is still a common nickname here in Australia lol. In my neighbourhood there's a Fats, and a Chunk. Great video mate. Really appreciated it

[@UlyssesFiles]

🤣 thanks, appreciate that 🙌🏻🍻

[@ratpatrol69]

What a legend!

[@terrycross6838]

Hi to all. How this heroic man isn’t on the one hundred dollar Australian bill is beyond me, VC RIF Lieutenant Lawrence McCarthy is an Australian hero and this hero should and shall appear on our very own Australian currency. I will and shall be interested to see just how many of you agree, with the above. Kind and sincere regards Terry.

[@ibpopp]

What an effort. Glad I was never on the wrong side of him! Shall we ever see their like again?

[@UlyssesFiles]

Me too - a unique generation

[@Walleyedwosaik]

It's interesting how a lot of Australians view war our day of remembrance is Anzac Day when the soldiers landed on the shores there is a dawn service and we remember all who we lost we don't put as much glory in it as other countries lest we forget

[@Smackedup100]

Mc Carthy and Monash. Two great Australians.

[@scottmitchell6344]

In all honesty I don’t think I’ve come across this blokes name thanks for sharing..glad you mentioned Albert Jacka who should have by all accounts had two VC’s

[@UlyssesFiles]

I hadn’t heard of him either before a subscriber asked us to look into him - glad we did. Yes Albert Jacka - what a legend, along with “Mad Harry” Henry Murphy; we will cover them too in the coming weeks.

[@warrenmilford6848]

I believe some folks reckon he should have gotten three VCs, as the actions that he won his two MCs were just as daring, if not more so, than the action that won him his VC, apparently.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes I read that. What a fella!

[@allansbullet]

Have a look at Charles Upham VC and Bar, a New Zealander who DID get two VC's. Craziest damn story you'll ever read or hear - especially the parts about his escapes as a POW - the Germans must have been thinking "Oh NO! Not THIS guy again!" Finally they put him in Colditz! Some great stuff here on KZbin about him!

[@UlyssesFiles]

Yes we must take a good look at Charles in an episode on the channel..

[@gme273]

Never heard of this Gentleman in our Australian history Books Thanks for sharing 🦘AU

[@UlyssesFiles]

Our pleasure!

[@user-ix6eq3su1n]

Fascinating 🎉🎉🎉

[@MBCGRS]

Hello from a Kiwi... ANZACs forever..!

[@datsshowbiz8558]

Thank you so much I'm Australian and it's the first I've heard of him. Shameful, The west has some big problems.

[@roscoewhite3793]

Thank you all for the welcome! I'd like to recommend two individuals for your attention. Both were from Portugal, a nation that gets little attention in the history of the Great War. * Anibal Augusto Milhais, a soldier who was dubbed "Soldado Milhões" ("Soldier Millions") for his exceptional courage during the German offensives of 1918, and received his nation's highest office. * José Botelho de Carvalho Araújo, a naval officer commanding a small armed trawler; he was killed in a vastly unequal action against a German submarine that was commanded by the highest scoring submarine ace of all time.

[@UlyssesFiles]

Oh Soldier Millions, have come across him before - super interesting character and will have to make something on him in future! Your second recommendation is new to me Sounds equally fascinating though… Thanks for these names 🙌🏻🍻

[@stewn1356]

“Everyone has a VC if given the chance” what a fella

[@williemrebekahmaclutchie-e7654]

ok,amazing man such a hero of trench war fare.

[@marktarrant1232]

There's a 'Baastian' plaque commemorating McCarthy's exploits in Vermandovillers, near where it happened - it is on the wall of the town hall (Mairie). The actual place it occurred has reverted to farm fields and I would have missed it except for the guide book 'Anzacs on the Western Front' by Peter Pedersen, which I don't think is in print still.

[@malcolmbickley1965]

Think saying Monash was capable is a bit of a understatement, was one of the best field commanders that the Allies had.

[@JUSTINIAN-SINCE.76]

I'm an Aussie and I heard of him I know only because I read up on this. But how long can we be expected to celebrate our hero's?

[@BusinessAustralian]

Respect.

[@brettwilliams2604]

A typical Australian soldier,well done mate