What Happened to the Victoria Cross Soldiers After Rorke's Drift

What happened to the Rorke’s Drift Victoria Cross heroes after the battle?
Chris Green (The History Chap) explores thier stories.
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Since the Victoria Cross was instituted in 1856, Britain’s highest medal for gallantry has been awarded just over 1,300 times.
11 of them were awarded to the defenders of Rorke’s Drift in 1879 fought during the Anglo-Zulu war, when a small force of under 150 British soldiers hold off a 10 hour attack by over 4,000 Zulus.
But what happened to those Victoria Cross winners after the event?
So, I have gone on a journey of discovery find out their stories.
My journey took me to the Royal Welsh Regimental Museum in Brecon and to some of the Rorke’s Drift VC graves.
Rorke’s Drift Victoria Cross Winners
1) Lt. John Chard (Royal Engineers)
He remained in the army for the rest of his career.
He died of cancer of the tongue in 1897 whilst staying with his brother, in Hatch Beachaup, Somerset.
He was buried in the churchyard.
2) Lt. Gonville Bromhead.
Bromhead, served out the rest of his days in the army rising to the rank of Major.
He died of Typhoid whilst stationed in India and is buried in a military cemetery at Allahabad.
3) Corporal William Allen.
After the war, Allen returned to south Wales where he married, had 7 children
He died of Influenza in 1890 (aged 45) and is buried in Monmouth.
4) Private Frederick Hitch
Frederick Hitch was invalided out of the army after Rorke’s Drift on a pension of £10pa.
Hitch eventually became a London cab driver and when he died in 1913, over 1,000 London taxis joined his funeral procession to churchyard in Chiswick, west London.
5) James Langley Dalton
Acting Assistant Commissary, Dalton became at the age of 46 the oldest defender at Rorke’s Drift to be awarded the VC.
After the war, he bought shares in a South African goldmine and died in Port Elizabeth in 1887.
6) Surgeon James Henry Reynolds
After the battle of Rorke’s Drift, this army medical officer, remained in the army for the next 17 years.
He finally died in 1932 and is buried in the Roman Catholic section of Kensall Green Rise Cemetery in London.
7) John Williams Fielding
Returned to south Wales where he married and had 5 children.
He volunteered in WW1 (at the age of 55) and spent the war serving on the depot staff at Brecon.
The last surviving VC winner, he died in 1932 and is buried at Cwmbran in south Wales.
8) Private Henry Hook
Upon leaving the army in 1880, he became a janitor at the British Museum.
He retired to his native Gloucestershire, where he died of Tuberculosis and was laid to rest in the village of Churcham, where he had been born.
9) Corporal Christian Ferdinand Scheiss
As a member of the Natal Native Contingent he became the first person, serving with a South African military unit to be awarded the Victoria Cross.
5 years after the war he was found in Cape Town begging in the street and suffering from malnutrition and exposure.
10) Private William Jones
He ended up in Manchester where in later life, he had recurring nightmares about the fight.
By 1910 he was reduced entering the workhouse in Manchester and had to pawn his Victoria Cross.
When he died in 1913, he was buried in a paupers grave.
11) Private Robert Jones
Became a labourer in Herefordshire but was plagued by recurring nightmares of that desperate fight against the Zulus in the hospital.
On the 6th September 1898 he was found dead from a gunshot wound to his head.
His headstone was turned to face in the opposite direction of all the other gravestones in the churchyard at Peterchurch, to show the stigma of suicide at that time.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:59 Lt. John Chard VC
2:04 Lt. Gonville Bromhead VC
3:50 William Allen VC
4:45 Fred Hitch VC
6:40 Dalton & Reynolds
7:37 John Fielding VC
9:02 Henry Hook VC
10:50 Ferdinand Scheiss VC
11:55 William Jones VC
13:40 Robert Jones VC
15:30 End of Journey
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Disclaimer: All opinions and comments expressed in the 'Comments' section do not reflect the opinions of Chris Green Communication Ltd t/a The History Chap. All opinions and comments should contribute to the dialogue. Chris Green Communication Ltd does not condone written attacks, insults, racism, sexism, extremism, violence or otherwise questionable comments or material in the 'Comments' section, and reserves the right to delete any comment violating this rule or to block any poster from the channel.

[@tbrollini8223]

As a retired military man, you can imagine just how bad this effects me! Absolutely disgraceful that these men, who performed as hero's during what had to be one of, if not, the most, dramatic fight against probably the most overwhelming odds, in which any group of men were able to be victorious. Even today, we see our Vets, homeless, with PTSD & not getting the help they deserve. I want to commend the "History Chap" on this outstanding video. I saw the movie when it came out, watch it whenever I can, because, it shows the determination, bravery & ingenuity, of a small group of men, holding firm against tremendous odds & come out "alive" & victorious! Tom USMC

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment

[@paulrowe9604]

EXCELLENT !!! Britain has a long history of treating its heroes and soldiers very badly from Waterloo until today !

[@TheHistoryChap]

Unfortunately, you are right

[@bullwinkle5445]

"It is Tommy this and Tommy that and it's Tommy how's your soul. But it's thin red line of hero's when the drums begin to roll"-R Kipling

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for commenting.

[@bullwinkle5445]

@@TheHistoryChap Thanks but you made a worthy video. These VC receivers remind me a lot of Ira Hays

[@g4joe]

Yes I'll never forget what's his name.

[@bullwinkle5445]

@@michaelwhisman Do you prefer soldiers who decide where and when they will fight?

[@SNP-1999]

@@michaelwhisman Then you can ask the same question pertaining to any white person in South Africa, not just British soldiers.

[@roberthouseman3200]

I have always been fascinated by the Battle of Rork's Drift, and been inspired by the raw bravery of how under 100 British soldiers could take on and defeat over 4,000 brave Zulus, held together by the leadership of their officers and their own discipline & training. On a recent visit to India, I found the grave of Gonville Bromhead in Allerabad - it was covered in growth so I paid the locals to remove all the rubbish & brushwood and hence return this brave VC winner to the sunlight; it was an honour so to do

[@TheHistoryChap]

Wow, that is one of the graves I haven’t been too. So much British military history has some sort of connection to India.

[@Digmen1]

Wow, thats amazing, and well done

[@BobBelson]

Bravo Sir..

[@adamp5879]

Il be visiting his grave in December. Aside from Scheiss obviously it will be the last Rorkes drift VC winners grave I have left to visit.

[@samrodian919]

Thank you for honouring him, as he like all the others deserved it.

[@matthewjones9565]

Robert Jones is my Great Great Great Grandfather. A source of great pride within the family, and also us being a long standing military family, (Every generation has served and unfortunately been to war). A final point, contrary to popular belief it wasn't the South Wales Borderers who fought at Rorke's Drift, it was actually the Warwickshire Regiment. They became the South Wales Borderers 2 years after the Zulu war was over. History was brought forward in the film because Stanley Baker was Welsh and he wanted more "Welshness" in the film.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Matthew, thank you for sharing your family story. You are right about the regimental name ( they only became the SWB in 1881). Stanley Baker gave it a Welsh spin whereas the reality was that they were in the minority (actually as many Irish as Welsh fighting there!)

[@kendignam6892]

You.must be very proud🙏

[@matthewjones9565]

@@kendignam6892 We're all very proud. I took my children to the Imperial War Museum where his medal is on display, even my 10 year old daughter who has no interest in history, "Because it's boring", teared up a little. I have 10 medals of my own which mean very little to me if I'm honest. All they do is remind me of things that I'd rather forget, but I'm incredibly proud of him and to be related to him.

[@hughblackwood8231]

They might mean very little to you, and I don't know you, but as one former Welsh soldier to another - well done, da iawn.@@matthewjones9565

[@kevinkenny6975]

Yes you are correct. I'm from Warwickshire and love military history and especially the zulu wars. I found this out a few years ago but nobody seems to know as they just refer to the film.

[@harkinsclark1417]

Frederick Hitch VC is a relative of mine, and Frederick is a common middle name in our family. Just to fill in a couple of gaps for you 🙂, the story about being robbed of his VC has always been taken with a pinch of salt within the family for reasons too numerous to go into here, he had nine children who survived out of childhood one of which he called Victoria and one of his granddaughters was still alive in the 1980s living in the white city area of London where my branch of the family come from. Another branch left the UK and settled in America. Right up until the 1990s if your surname was Hitch and you Excelled at school then the British army came recruiting. It's my understanding that the regiment now has both the original VC and the reissued one although I never followed that information up because I myself left the UK 20 years ago.

[@davethebrahman9870]

He did very well in that fight.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to comment.

[@leanatale7251]

Living in the uk today feels like being transported back to Rorkes Drift

[@davethebrahman9870]

@@leanatale7251 Yeah, but without any officers or Martini Henrys.

[@jkjhkerbybargoedmidglamwal9282]

Then you can feel justly proud This old soldier 🫡 his memory. Whilst ive reservations about Britain being there at all is besides the point ......He Was one Brave Man who 🫡🇬🇧🫡

[@robg5958]

As ever, a very informative video. The British Army has a poor record on the care of it's heroes and veterans. My uncle was a prisoner of the Japanese in Burma and for the rest of his life he suffered terribly from the effects of malaria, malnutrition and the barbaric Japanese guards who pulled out his fingernails as a punishment. He received no psychological treatment upon returning home and turned to drink on many occasions in his attempts to ward off his demons. Thankfully the army of today seems to understand PTSD.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing that very personal story. The army might not get it 100% right now but I guess the support (& understanding of PTSD) is better than in the past. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info Chris

[@TheMachines]

Same with my grandfather , he died from malaria after Burma. No help, no recognition. Nothing.

[@artcoffey]

MY father's cousin was taken prisoner by the Japanese in Singapore and spent about four years working on the building of the Burma Railway in Thailand. He was forced to bury his friend alive after his friend had been tortured...

[@mairiconnell6282]

@@TheHistoryChap the understanding of PTSD is worldwide now and fully scientifically documented. However, the Army's response is to medically discharge sufferers, before Pension Pay outs. Therefore, many suffer in silence just to get that pension hop off point. Recognising and proper response is a miss match sadly.

[@welshman8954]

As a welshman and a vet of 2 royal welsh who's predecessors were at rorks drift I just want to say thank you (diolch) for bringing this incredible moment in British/welsh history to life again and 11 V.C not bad atall

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@clementjones7277]

The 2 Jones are related to me! My father Wilfred Jones came to Canada 1900. He served I ww1.

[@eturfrey]

As you are probably aware then being a veteran, it was the 2nd Warwickshire Regt at Rorke’s Drift. Of which there were Welsh, English and some Irish.

[@JacquelineFox-xo6jn]

See? ❤

[@trigger399]

​@@clementjones7277 William Jones was English, born in Bristol.

[@ericwilliams2317]

I used to visit Hitch's grave quite often as it's near my old home in Hammersmith. It's certainly a very impressive monument to a brave man and believe the small white stone plaque with a VC engraved into it on the right of the photo was stolen once or twice, which is a pretty sick thing to do in my opinion, but was replaced from time to time. Incidentally, the part of 'Surgeon Reynold' was played in the movie by the actor Patrick Magee, who was the father of a very good friend of mine and also lived fairly close to the cemetery.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Eric, you are right about Hitch's memorial being impressive. Nice to hear about your connection to the film too. Chris kzbin.info

[@frankreynolds4547]

Brilliant! Thank you for keeping their memory and all their brothers in arms heroism alive.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice words. Glad you liked the video.

[@MrKato88]

I was aware that some of the VC repients fell on desperate times after the battle I had no idea of the scale of it though, another cracking video nonetheless, well done.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you and I'm glad that you enjoyed it. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@husker0415]

Well done indeed! Keep up the excellent work, History Chap.

[@jurgschupbach3059]

the Gifts of a feudalistic class system are always giving

[@ronti2492]

Agree, that regi museum in Brecon is excellent! When I was on an exchange with the Brit Army in Catterick in 2012 , I visited Brecon and went walking in this beautiful area. It was interesting as I was always getting mistaken for a Gurkha. I should explain ( I did not know this before I went there) that the Gurkhas form a big part of the ? battle school which I think is based near the town (?). Consequently ,there are a number of ex-Gurkha soldier run businesses in the town, including several excellent eateries, which I am sure you noticed. I'm Australian, but my ancestors were from Malaya and of course the slouch hat is our standard head dress. Thus=easy to be mistaken for a Gurkha, although I must say Gurkhas are the finest group of men to be confused with, if one has the choice! And whilst I am here: thankyou for your videos and please keep them coming- indeed, I have subscribed!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Great story, Ron :) Yes, I did notice a few Gurkha restaurants in Brecon! Thanks for subscribing. Chris

[@vanpallandt5799]

Great comment and an antidote to some of the bile on YT re the only real Australians are white etc..same claims made re Kiwis and Yanks of course, as apparently if you dont create a country etc and develop it, you lose any claim to it..kind of like taking over that old house with the overgrown lawn and evicting the owner on a "you didnt do much with it, so its mine now" basis

[@eclipse7436]

You will find them in every garrison town, great allies but dangerous enemies, had many gurkhas I could call friends!

[@jerryallen34]

Thank you. I visited both battlefields, Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift at the end of 1995 and it was a moving experience. To see the the area they fought in and stood their ground was amazing but the overwhelming feeling was, what on earth were they doing there? It's remote but back then it must of felt like the end of the earth, a differing attitude back then as it was all about conquest. There was a guy tending the hospital site when we got there who first ask me was I a relative (no) as that was the only type of people who visited at that time, and also asked did I know where all 11 were buried? No I didnt but now you have answered that question.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad I have helped Jerry.

[@GrannySea]

@@TheHistoryChap Some years ago I was reading a copy of "Country Life" or some other glossy in the doctor's waiting room, I came upon an article about Rorke's Drift, and it was said that various artefacts, like tunic buttons, belt buckles, etc were still being picked up off the battlefield - the local chidren would scavenge for items and then sell them to the tourists!

[@m.o.1648]

​​@@GrannySeaYes, on the Isandlwana battlefield you can still find buttons, badges, buckles, metal remnants of rifles, bayonets and spears. The bodies of the people that died on the battlefield remained where they fell untouched. Even today you need permission from the local Zulu chief to go onto the actual battlefield. A bit of trivia as well. Some of the buttons, buckles and badges on the tunics of the casts uniforms in the movie Zulu. We're actually authentic items found at Isandlwana. Plus originals were used to cast and recreate items for the other uniforms.

[@Go-cr2ip]

While working in South Africa between 1993 and 1995, I visited Rourkes drift on my way back to Pretoria from a visit to Durban. I remember how remote the site was, and how the hill overlooking the Hospital area where the Zulu's first fired on the troops must have been terrifying. I do not think many people visited the site. I bought some postcards from a guy who I surpose "looked after" the place and took some photo's. I got into my car and continued with my journey. It was'nt until I saw this video by accident that I recalled my experience. I think I am a slightly better person for my visit. Thanks for making this video, it was really interesting to me.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you so much for sharing your personal link to the battlefield. Glad you enjoyed my video. kzbin.info

[@joeritchie4554]

This was so interesting. It answered a question for me. I figured that those who had served in such horrific battles would have PTSD, and you confirmed that belief for me.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@pontecarlo4354]

Fantastic video thank you. I often think of Private Henry Hook when visiting The British Museum but wasn’t aware he died so soon after retirement. It’s also sad how he was portrayed in Zulu, so different from the truth. However here’s to all these brave men.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your comment and I'm glad that you enjoyed. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@manonamountain]

As much as he was portrayed, a bit of a 'bad lad', Hooky was everyones favourite, when i was a kid!

[@robj4881]

It's so wrong that he was portrayed that way in the film. He was a decent man but at least the film got his courage and bravery right.

[@the5thmusketeer215]

Very stalwart & courageous Men, who all deserve to be remembered. Some - in later life - fell upon hard times or were sadly, but very understandably, haunted by the hugely traumatic events of that fateful Day… Your admirable desire to seek out & relate a little of their individual tales, did them all proud, Chris. Thank you & well done… 🤝

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for those poignant words and for your support. It was quite special visiting some of the graves.

[@dennismitchell5414]

Seeing the movie " ZULU " when I was seven years old sparked an interest in the British Army during Victorian times which brought me to this channel . Thank you for all the hard work you put in doing the research and making these videos . God bless you and stay safe.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for those very kind words.

[@kristiannoel4866]

I was in both the royal engineers (there's a building in Gibraltar barracks called Chard V. C.) and the royal regiment of Wales during my time in the army. Even though I have been told of those events, the bravery of the men there never ceases to amaze me. Keep up the good work with your videos (this is the 6th video in a row of yours I've watched).

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for those kind words.

[@lindaplatts7064]

Hi , this is one of my favourite episodes in military history , the way you presented this video was brilliant ,I love your channel , please keep it up .

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks, Linda. Just in case you haven't already done so, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info Chris

[@itsnotrightyouknow]

Thank you very well put together. It is impossible to even try and imagine the terror and fear of that attack at Rorkes Drift, and then as many heros are, forgotten by society. So once again thank you for taking the time to research and out this video together.

[@TheHistoryChap]

it's my pleasure. I'm glad that you enjoyed it. kzbin.info

[@hms_thunderchild5456]

Excellent video. These men were all extraordinary soldiers and they deserve to be remembered

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your kind words. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@silvertownkid]

Back in the 1980s I was employed as a civilian ship's captain by the Ministry of Defense (Royal Corps of Transport-Army Dept). We ordered a dozen or so 15 metre fast patrol boats, which were to be employed around the UK coast as range safety craft. All the craft were named after George Cross or Victoria Cross recipients. One of these craft was named the James Dalton VC, who fought at Rorke's Drift. A fitting honour for a brave soldier.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks so much for sharing that memory

[@harryshriver6223]

I must say I truly enjoyed this episode you produced because too often you never hear about what happens afterwards. It was really awesome to learn about what happened after the battle I also have great respect for the way you defended the reputations some of the heroes of rorke's drift. Well-done, sir and kudos to you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching

[@user-jo2kj3mi1b]

If it was. Not.for.youpeople we.would.never.have know n about these facts

[@robj4881]

Pte Robert Jones has the same name as myself. I was very saddened to find out many years ago that he took his own life. The good news in this video is that he did marry and had five children with his wife. They were all brave people at that battle. They should be remembered and respected for their courage against overwhelming odds.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to comment.

[@howardamey7228]

Outstanding video and information. The gallantry, heroism, and sacrifice of these brave men shall never be equaled.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words

[@halfcan-nitafan5207]

Brilliant video thanks you sir I'm a proud irishman proper irish ,irish is my first language I was sux weeks old when my parents left me here in ireland while they continued to work in England where I had been born * guys and St thomas's) times back where tough and my parents where trying and succeeded in building a hone for me and two later my sister ,I've always been proud of the land of my birth The United Kingdom and you regularly reinforce that pride thank you

[@conlaiarla]

You are a strange individual.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed the video. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@josephnardone1250]

Absolutely an excellent video capturing the humanness of the men involved. You are right when you say that it is sad. Kipling was right: "Lest we forget."

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks Joseph. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@Nuseeker]

Excellent as always. Very sad what happen to many of these heros. I served as a U.S. Marine more than fifty years ago and I was very moved by this. A warrior is a warrior regardless of nation or politics and I respect the warriors. I enjoy your videos very much sir! This has moved me to give financial support for your superb work.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to comment.

[@kelvinogden4073]

The bands never stop playing and they are always remembered. I can tell you that’s a fact. Just found your channel and a big thumbs up.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you. Please subscribe to my channel.

[@kiwifruit27]

Thank you for sharing this. Truly sad how events too often destroy those who survive them later in life

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@fergalohearga9594]

Very well done and interesting ... incredibly sad how most of the lads ended up. There's a socialogy study in that for sure,

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for those words

[@russbarker2727]

Fascinating, and sad stuff. Thank you for a very informative video History Chap. Well presented. So sad that some of Britains national heroes end their days in sadness.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you, Russ. Glad you liked it. By the way, If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@Pfsif]

Some sad stories from some of the bravest.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to comment. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@tipofthespear74]

Loved this video! I loved learning about what happened to all these people. Thanks again from across the pond!

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure John. If you haven't already then please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info Best wishes, Chris

[@petrovonoccymro9063]

What a truly wonderful video. And you are spot on to call the Brecon museum the spiritual home of the 24th Foot, as it was the recruiting base for the outfit even though the HQ was elsewhere. Was it Warwickshire? In those days, of course, it was common for the actual HQ to be nowhere near the recruitment base. This was why there were so many Welshmen in the outfit, one, I know, from Cwmbran. The regiment was later renamed the South Wales Borderers. My father, grandfather and Great uncle all fought under that badge in the second and first world wars. My dad’s record was classed as exemplary. My grandad won the Military Medal in the trenches in France,

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing your family links to the South Welsh Borderers. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info Chris

[@randwickbelle]

Sgt William Allen VC was a Great Uncle on my father side he was from Northumberland probably Alnwick.

[@TheWoodyman95]

Thank you for making this video, it’s very interesting and I’ve learnt a lot. I’m a descendant of Cpl William Allen and I’ve been trying to learn more about him and the people at Rorke’s drift. Thanks again keep up the hard work.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks, Elliot. Have you been to his grave in Monmouth? By the way, if you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@TheWoodyman95]

I haven’t yet, I’m planning to go this summer and I’m hoping to visit the Welsh borderers museum as well. Yes just subscribed, I look forward to watching more of your videos.

[@michaeldevanney4796]

There is a charity shop in Doncaster on the lakeside shopping centre.All proceeds go to look after VC recipients graves.Entirely run by volunteers. Go and visit if you can,they sell some great stuff! By the way,I think Steven Illingworth should have been awarded a VC during the Falkland war.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Michael, thanks for the info. Do you know the name of the shop? Hope you are enjoying my videos and if you are please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@michaeldevanney4796]

@@TheHistoryChap Victoria Cross Trust shop,Lakeside village. Doncaster. I believe there is also one in York.

[@andrewtate8303]

@@michaeldevanney4796 thanks for the info I will visit the shop next time I go Yorkshire outlet .

[@JP89SE3]

Another excellent video, Chris, thank you. I daresay that many of the other participants there - the often forgotten non-VC winners - also fell on hard times.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Unfortunately, I think we can assume they did.

[@julieblundell7421]

Well done Chris, great video of a great action, please, please do more about the Victoria Cross, Lee.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks, I am really pleased that you enjoyed it.

[@LansMalherbe]

Many thanks for this wonderful insights of these hero's lives. So sad that nothing has changed when soldiers return home. Rest in peace

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@ronti2492]

@ The History Chap. I would say the film 'Zulu' has been a huge influence on our generation, I bet you watched it when you were but a wee lad like me! And what a movie!

[@TheHistoryChap]

I did indeed. The Zulu arrival is still a fantastic piece of cinema.

[@ronti2492]

@@TheHistoryChap Agree! It is one of the best scenes in movie making from the last century with the music , especially the drum really 'making' the scene!

[@rocketron6677]

We visit both sites Rorkes Drift & Isandlwa as often as we can. Very moving experience every time.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very long time since I visited Zululand but the graves in England and Wales were poignant in their own right.

[@timalder8940]

Excellent video, now a subscriber!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Tim, Thanks for your support.

[@matthewmckever2312]

You just got a new subscriber with that. Like many a young English lad Zulu blew me away when I saw it. I'm from Hackney and often pop down the British museum mostly for the classical Greek exhibition and I was amazed to learn from you that Hooky worked those corridors and halls that I walk down, given the place an extra historical narrative for me. It was sad but also unsurprising that they suffered PTSD, a friend of mine slept in his car with his dogs for a year on his return from Afghanistan as he just couldn't settle. Kipling and the men at Rourkes would have understood that I think. "When your left for dead on Afghanistan's plains, roll to your gun and blow out your brains" I've probably misquoted Rudyard there, but you get the drift. Off to check out your piece on the actual battle now. Ta.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you so much for the subscription and I totally sympathise with your thoughts on PSTD

[@stigg333]

Brilliant video and quite a sad one unfortunately. We should make sure we always look after all our heroes and all the men and women who have served and who still serve to keep us safe.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Totally agree with your sentiments. Thanks for liking my video and for taking the time to comment. Chris

[@emperorpalpatine4681]

As always, great video. Congrats on the continuing growth of the channel.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@RichardJohnson-vm6zf]

I was fortunate to have visited Isladawana and Rorkes Drift when I did a big South African Road Trip with my then South African girl friend. It was a very moving experience! I also visited the site of Blood Rivier [Blood River] where hundreds of Zulus did attacking a wagon train of Boer settlers travelling to a new life only a few Boers did or were injured in the battle but the river became Red with blood from the Zulus!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing. Sounds like one heck of a trip.

[@timfenton5153]

very interesting, looking forward to the next one, thanks

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks, Tim. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@fredazcarate4818]

Thank you for reminding us that great valour comes at a stiff price. God bless you Sir!

[@TheHistoryChap]

You are welcome.

[@serpent645]

Excellent presentation, as are every one of yours I viewed. I must point out, however, that a soldier doesn't "win" valor awards, he earns them, he is awarded them, but you may win a contest or lottery, that term is generally inappropriate in this context. I say this with respect as a retired US Army Warrior.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your thoughts and kind words. By the way, if you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@jameskerby3377]

Wonderfully Narrated. Kept on my seat....as I sometimes cried The most tears were and are for the last guy Jones. Could take his mental anguish no more and took his own life. Let those bigots of the church HANG THIER HEADS IN SHAME....FOR THE WAY THEY TREATED HIS MORTAL REMAINS. HOW COULD THEY TREAT A HERO OF OUR NATION WITH SUCH DISTAIN ..HOW ? THAT SORT OF CHRISTIANITY CERTAINLY WASNT WHAT OUR LORD HAD IN MIND .... SUCH BIGOTS ....THEY WERE NOT FIT TO CLEAN JONES BOOTS. HE REMAINS THE HERO HE WAS AND WILL REMAIN SO FOR THE REST OF TIME. MAY HE REST IN PEACE ✝️ ✝️

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to post your passionate comment.

[@iamnotarobot2378]

Cracking good story sir. Thank you for the efforts you put in to creating this video.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks, Cecil. If you enjoyed then please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info Best wishes, Chris

[@timfromdurban]

I visited Rorkes Drift last week, this was a great video. Thank you very much.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks.

[@silentwitness247]

Excellent piece of research, sensitively produced and presented. Thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your kind words. By the way, If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@tomberg5564]

This was really interesting. Thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@steved2008]

Absolutely uplifting and sad at the same time, thank you for this amazing video. Ubique

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed it .If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@pavlothekozak827]

God bless them all. Thank you for this.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Hi Paul, I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@martinjones9022]

Thank for the video, from Peterchurch in Herefordshire!! Martin Jones

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. What a lovely village (apart from the sad story).

[@paulmatthews7744]

Thank you for doing something I’ve wanted to do for a long time.

[@jensg367]

Great presentation. Thank you for the thrilling episode about those heroic soldiers. Perfect!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad that you enjoyed my story. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@emanuelgalea2373]

Thanks for providing such detailed and informative knowledge on this piece of history, keep up your excellent work

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks, Emanuel. By the way, If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@rockfishmiller]

Fascinating, thank you so much for posting. Lest we forget.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@rollingthunder4]

Fascinating stuff. My best mate at Primary School's Father was one Richard Davies, of Please Sir fame, he played one of the VC recipients defending the Hospital iirc.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Fascinating

[@ronmanzer6279]

Just found this site you did a fantastic presentation thank you looking forward to watching all of your others

[@TheHistoryChap]

Welcome aboard, glad you enjoyed my video.

[@colinsmith7465]

Very moving video Chris on those VC winners at Rorkes Drift,brought a lump to my throat.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching

[@RoyLlowarch]

Amazingly good video and very moving. I am left feeling very proud of these gallant men but I also feel tearful.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to comment. kzbin.info

[@glynnbates3241]

Your wonderful videos are so enlightening . So sorry I didn't subscribe before. Thank you for your time and effort.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching

[@noveltybobel]

It's amazing to think that Fred Hitch's original VC medal is probably sitting in the dust in someone's loft somewhere, waiting to be discovered

[@TheHistoryChap]

A good film in the making!

[@lesliecarter8322]

Great VLOG, very interesting the background of the soldiers who were at Rorkes Drift. You have done a lot of research, well done sir.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks. I found the research (& the road trips) fascinating.

[@illuminant1129]

Excellent video - which was most informative. I knew Bromhead died in India but was unaware of what befell the others. Many thanks.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed. kzbin.info

[@MrJohnWKing]

Really wonderful work and a really great channel.

[@petermcquade1003]

Brilliant piece of work, thank you so much for sharing this! You will probably know about this but I'll tell it anyway for people that wont, I tried finding my Gt Grandmothers grave in Barrow in Furness at the main cemetery there. Whilst searching for her, I came across a black granite headstone with a VC on it. This headstone belonged to Private Samuel Wassall (b 1856, d 1927), 80th Regiment of Foot, Staffordshire Volunteers. He was actually mounted infantry and in the film, "Zulu Dawn", at the end of the film, a mounted soldier rescues a soldier in the river who is carrying the colours. This mounted soldier was Private Wassall and it was for this action that he gained his VC. Keep up the great work, I really enjoyed this video and hopefully you can give all of us eager listeners more information on the other VC winners in the Zulu war.

[@tomraw4893]

A tremendous narrative, providing great historical detail.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching

[@roytetwart]

A very interesting video which was obviously very well researched. I just love your enthusiasm!!!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed. many thanks for watching.

[@jmc7034]

Would you cover other VC winners in the same formate? Love what you’ve done❤️❤️❤️

[@TheHistoryChap]

Intending to do so, although with 1358 recipients it might take some time! Watch this space.

[@gemellodipriapo]

Touching. Fascinating. Informative. Thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thank you for watching

[@ancientmusketeer6564]

Wow, thank you for this sad piece of research, I knew very little of this history and the video has filled in many gaps, again, thank you.

[@swaldron5558]

Brilliant story, I was 10 years old watched Zulu film, never forget about amazing heroes fought off thousands of Zulu warriors.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyued it.

[@James-is2dr]

Very interesting / informative. Enjoyed.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed, James. If you haven't already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@kevinthorp1419]

I joined the Royal Engineers in April 1992. It was the last year that individual Corps trained their own basic training. We had to watch Zulu after a hard day training and got beasted for disrespect because some lads couldn’t keep their eyes open. Looking back the nco’s we’re so right to beast us after what these men went through only later do you fully understand. Incredible men who fought for each other. ‘Because we’re here lad and there’s no one else’.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing your memories

[@johnmccann7546]

Very well done. Thanks !

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you liked it!

[@paulgarland3140]

Fabulous presentation! Many thanks for this!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching

[@greybeardmodels]

Thanks you for the history, its fascinating. Cheers Bob

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@rachelcroucher7823]

I have always loved history, and l did a prodject myself on the Anglo Zulu war when l was at school. Although l knew quite a bit , l didn’t know that Bromhead had ptsd, poor guy. I suppose l shouldn’t be surprised, as traumatic events do lead to this. Had no idea that he was so sensitive.❤ Thank you for filling in the gaps.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you very much for watching my video and I’m pleased that you found it interesting

[@daryllamonaco3102]

What a wonderful and enlightening story, well said, you should have 10 million views sir!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Daryl, Thanks for your kind comments. Please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@Digmen1]

That was very well researched and a lot of work. It so sad how many of them ended their lives Lest We Forget!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for watching and for taking the time to comment

[@arvo56]

Well done Chris,-another great video on people who should always be remembered1

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you.

[@peterwhitaker4038]

absolutely fascinating and well researched thankyou so much

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching

[@geoffreyleaudais9582]

Thankyou very much for uploading this video on my mother's side I'm related directly to Alfred Hanry Hook, we actually still have his VC. Medal, I was very unhappy with how he was portrayed in the movie by James booth, Alfred was a very highly spoken man not a drunk that they portrayed in the movie...all in all thankyou very much

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. You must be very proud to have such a brave man as a relative. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@lorrainepope7385]

I'm also related to Henry Hook. He was my Great Great Grandfather.

[@whitetroutchannel]

was it your aunties then that hit the roof about it when it opened?

[@kw6766]

I only just discovered your channel and i must say well done absolutely great conrent

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you very much. Plenty more coming your way.

[@davidnettleton7084]

Great research. Thank you.😊

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad it was helpful!

[@briandubois-gilbert8182]

A very poignant but affectionate retelling of the personal stories of the heroes of the defense of Rorke’s Drift and its aftermath that changed the remainder of their lives-several with tragic consequences. In the Zulu film, there was a scene after the battle where Bromhead (Michael Caine) revealed to Chard (Stanley Baker) that he felt “shame” for the carnage he just participated and witnessed-a hint of the PTSD that’ll malign him afterwards. Thank you, indeed, for this modern-day tribute to these brave men.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Brian, that is a very good observation, which I had missed. If you haven't already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info Chris

[@robj4881]

In the film I felt that Michael Caine playing Bromhead felt sick and sickened by the carnage. That would of been my reaction if I'd been through something like that.

[@jonathanhayward3013]

Eternally Grateful for these men . They shape south africa .

[@t75green17]

Excellent video. I often wondered what happened to the VC winners....well done

[@TheHistoryChap]

You are welcome, glad that you enjoyed. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@iangrimwood3345]

Very interesting!! Brilliant video!! Very rare that you see so many winners of VC that actually survive the battle. I do believe that a lot of VC’s are awarded posthumously!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for adding that interesting thought .If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe for future videos. kzbin.info

[@trooperdgb9722]

Until 1907 policy was NOT to award it posthumously. When that changed a number of awards were made retrospectively to deserving candidates. It seems apparent that from WW1 onwards award of the VC was made significantly more difficult than initially...

[@GregWampler-xm8hv]

Outstanding and I love your passion. Sounds like "Peachy" Carnahan was spot on in his reply to being called a detriment.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video, thanks for waching.

[@michaelcharlton8896]

Another very interesting video - thanks!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@robertdore9592]

Your research is excellent Chris.

[@polmick]

Thanks well researched and presented 👏👏

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your kind words. Please make sure to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss future videos. kzbin.info