What Makes Charles Upham VC a LEGENDARY War Hero?

[@hullster9970]

From me, an Englishman, this was a nice tribute to him. One VC is incredible, but to have two is jaw dropping. I am so proud to call New Zealand as our allies

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks so much for watching my video and for taking the time to comment

[@harrycurrie9664]

He was actually nominated for 3.

[@kiwifruit27]

As a proud kiwi I really appreciate you telling his story in its entirety, a truly remarkable man

[@russbarker2727]

As an ex-pat Pom, I am also proud to now be a Kiwi. Incidentally, I went to the same school as Cpt Noel Chavasse VC and bar, Magdalen College School, Oxford,

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@jamescooper-hope6930]

Count Dankula has a great and detailed expose on Capt Upham on his channel. Definitely worth a listen.

[@garymoore2535]

The Kiwi's are remarkable people who punch way above their weight ! ❤ 🇬🇧🇳🇿

[@joemuir2575]

Bring back men like that, what a hero

[@careyclements5400]

I had great pleasure to interview both Charles Upham VC and Bar and Jack Hinton VC, separately during an army function in Dunedin in 1992. I have still got the interviews on cassette and in addition got their autographs and also posed with them over a photo. Even though I was warned that Upham was a shy man, he was actually very open during the interview, probably helped by the fact that he already had a couple of whiskeys beforehand and because I was also a young reserve soldier at the time, so he appreciated that I was not looking for anything from a sensation point of view. More than 30 years later, I still regard these two interviews as two major highlights of my life to date.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing

[@davidarchibald50]

In Crete, the bullet that struck his foot was spent, and lodged under his skin. Charlie carried on, until three days later he had a moment, and with his bayonet dug it out. As a kid growing up in New Zealand in the 50s and 60s, we all read the book about him. He was someone we held as someone to live up to. Of course, you never could. They are rare people, these heroes.

[@markpullar3993]

My grandmother gave me the book to read as a 20 year old laying in a hospital bed with a badly broken leg. I still have the book

[@TheHistoryChap]

Indeed they are rare. Thanks for sharing.

[@spudpud-T67]

@@markpullar3993 The book " Mark of the lion" by Kenneth Stanford.

[@chopstick266]

Didn't they mess up at meleme and thats why crete was lost?

[@FREDDAGGS]

@@chopstick266 they put a possibly shell shocked WW1 vet in charge of a key position. He lost his nerve and said he couldn't hold. The entire thing hinged on that one decision.

[@Hartley_Hare]

I simply can't quite understand how this man can have been so unbelievably brave and in not just one but a series of engagements over a sustained period. This country has been phenomenally lucky to have been able to call on men like this.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice comment

[@Hartley_Hare]

@@TheHistoryChap It reminds me of Group Captain Cheshire's VC. Awarded not for a single moment of courage, but for sustained bravery carried out with a clear head. I'm such an old softie that reading about things like this makes me feel weepy, and very grateful. And huge respect to the Kiwis, Aussies and all the others who gave their sons so selflessly. That's quite something.

[@samrodian919]

@@Hartley_Hare hear hear! I too felt teary listening to Chris tell of Captain Upham's sheer bloody mindedness and bravery. What a man and what an inspiration to all Kiwi's and the rest of mankind.

[@kailohpengio7730]

It got something to do with their culture?

[@markpullar3993]

You should read the book " Mark of the lion" by Kenneth Stanford. He was probably lucky to have being captured in North Africa otherwise it's hard to see how he would have survived the Italian campaign

[@johnallen3250]

I was a choirboy about 10 when I meet Captain Upham . And asked for his autograph which he gave me on the Anzac Day service sheet. I asked him how he became a hero and he said I am not a hero the priest is . I then became an alter boy to the priest after I left the Choir sadly the priest got killed by a bus while ridding his bike on Papanui Rd here in Christchurch. At his funeral I found out he administered last rights to the soldiers at the battle of Alamaine while under enemy fire and then I understood what Captain Upham had said to me when I got his Autograph in his eyes being under enemy fire un armed in his eyes the priest was his hero. The man was humble and a credit to his Generation and the Farm was near Mt Parnasas

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you so much for sharing your memories

[@paulmcewen]

I have his autobiography The Mark Of The Lion sighed by Him about 1964 it was Anzac Day at Blackball and him and Dave Kirk who was an old Blackball boy whom Upham said was the finest fighting soldier he’d ever served with they came out of the hotel 3, sheets to the wind and I asked him if he would sigh my fathers copy of his book which he did and I still have that book today.

[@helveticaification]

A very moving appendix to the story of modest heroism and bravery. I lived in NZ for some time, but never heard this story. If I had, I would certainly have gone to pay my respects from UK.

[@K9-Crazy]

Very touching. The story of the priest truly touched me. I live in the States in Kansas. im wishing you nothing but the best.

[@warringtonminge4167]

Wow. Just wow.

[@juleshorse9056]

I cannot find words sufficient to express my admiration for Charles Upham - a legend.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks so much for taking the time to comment

[@JJ-of1ir]

I am so glad you told us this brave man's story. New Zealand must be very proud of him and England very proud and grateful that he and other such men stood side by side with us in our time of great need.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice words. Thanks for taking the time to share.

[@copferthat]

When I was a young boy in the 50's talk of the loyalty of NZ Australia and Canada used to make my mother cry and I wondered why. When you grow up you learn why she was so proud and humbled by them.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you so much for sharing

[@atfjacknz]

As a Kiwi, I appreciate you posting the story of one of the greatest Kiwis, and on Anzac day (well, the day after for us, but for you the 25th). We will remember them.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching

[@sebatianalvarado7171]

LEST WE FORGET ...

[@robdavidson4945]

I'm an American son of a Scots immigrant. The men of my Scots family were in mostly Highland Regiments. A couple were at the Somme including my Grandfather another at Galipoli. They were all front line Infantry. They all came home alive which was a miracle at that time. Dad came to the USA after service in the Seaforth Highlanders. I read the book about Charles Upham when I was in 7th grade back in the late 60's. He was one of my heroes.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank for taking the time to share.

[@cynthiaalver]

If Hollywood put out a film with all his doings no one would believe it. Huge respect and gratitude for this courageous, honorable man.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to post.

[@asterixdogmatix1073]

A movie was planned in 2007 pre GFC. With Karl Urban to play lead (despite the height difference!), but funding disappeared.

[@kvman6410]

If he were American like Audie Murphy he would have had his own movie franchise

[@paullane8709]

They had Audie Murphy. Another brave man.

[@davidgray3321]

This man is a great credit to New Zealand, you can tell from his photographs that he was extremely formidable and fit. A exceptional man indeed. Thank you New Zealand .

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts

[@peterjones7673]

What a trio of heroic gentlemen who all share one thing total modesty in their actions. Thank you so much for the stories of these true heroes

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed them.

[@user-vv6sy2ox4q]

As a New Zealand Infanteer I meet Charles Upham twice, I also have his signature on a pamphlet to a rugby match that I played in named in his honour. I also have a photograph of myself and CPT Upham while at an anniversary of the battle of Minqar Qaim.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Wow, those are two fantastic Momentos of a great man. Thanks for sharing.

[@user-yr4mo3iz4d]

NZ do not use CPT its CAPT. so lies.

[@saadkhan1128]

They wrote the tales of valor in thier own blood. The common wealth troops were the bravest men, of the bravest generation.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for posting those touching words.

[@TheRobby1971]

Agree completely, Churchill was fond of 'saying why won't they fight' of British Troops. (The answer being one of trust and memory of the catastrophic death toll in WW1) All to often the ANZACS were used to kick the door in. The best of the best.

[@sebatianalvarado7171]

@@TheRobby1971 our SAS is still one of best Special Forces in the world ... average kiwi very all rounded .. we all been bush , in water , on boats m in snow , shooting , hunting , etc ... all no mater where you are these things are there to do or about 1/2 hrs away .. older generations anyway ...

[@barryallison-ut2ux]

@@TheRobby1971 ANZACs must be in capitals mate !

[@TheRobby1971]

@@barryallison-ut2ux thanks, edited.

[@davidferry548]

The crazy part is that there were many in high places who believed he should have have been awarded a second bar to his VC. This was a remarkable man

[@bevanfletcher6563]

It was said that he should have received one for his actions during the New Zealand Division breakout from Minqar Qaim. During the action for which he was awarded his 2nd VC he was actually wounded on 4 occasions.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@catweaselnz]

Pretty sure that Kippenberger said he deserved five or six but the higher ups said don't be ridiculous and two will have to do. The book on him is The Mark Of A Lion and is a fantastic read. The nerve of the man!

[@bevanfletcher6563]

@@catweaselnz When Upham wad put forward for a 2nd VC King GeorgeVI asked General Kippenberger if he really deserved a 2nd, Kippenberger's reply was that he deserved 2 more, as he believed that Upham deserved another for his actions during the breakout from Minqar Qaim.

[@davidferry548]

@@catweaselnz yes I've read it

[@baronoflivonia.3512]

Amazing story about a truly Amazing Man. As a baby boomer, these guys were my Hero's. In school late 60's-early 70's I devoured every library book I could on British, Commonwealth and US battles and the men that fought them. Captain Upham was a remarkable man from the Greatest Generation of my Life. Thank You for spreading this story of this Man's Courage.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for watching. I’m glad you enjoyed my video.

[@robertmiller2173]

My father was in the famous 20th Battalion and apart of the 1st Echelon of the 2nd NZEF which fought in Greece, Crete, North Africa. In North Africa he was wounded at battle near Sedi Rezegh in Operation Crusader. Rommel himself had visited the this Desert Hospital Tent and and once Germans took over the pain relief and the dressing of the wounds improved dramatically. He was lucky to escape with 18 other New Zealanders including Major General Howard Kippenberger. When he came back to NZ to convalesce. After my fathers wound healed he went back to war as a Tank Commander of a M4 Sherman, right through Italy up to Trieste. He fell in love with his Mk 4 Sherman and its mighty Ford GAA V8. After the war the 20th battalion had its Annual Reunions. Being a South Island Pakeha Battalion most of it reunions were held in Christchurch but they had ones in Southland and Otago as well. Anyway my mum and dad used to catch up with the Uphams at least once a year, and they went back to Crete in 1981 for the 40th Anniversary of the Battle. They also were hosted by the Fallschirmjager veterans in Munich and had a great time! My dad said that the "Boys" kept a careful eye on Charlie as he was still the Warrior! I learnt so much more about the war when I was a Student at the University of Otago. in the Holidays I would go back home to the Farm and get work either fencing, or working at the Freezing works and in the Weekends I would play barmen to any of Dad's old mates from the 20th Battalion, so I would just sit a listen and wait until their whiskey or gin glass needed a top up! Here's to Charlie and Molly and Kay and Rex Bless you, I miss you!

[@TheHistoryChap]

What a wonderful story. Thank you so much for taking the time to share

[@harrycurrie9664]

Did Charles attend the Munich reunion ? I know he would not allow anything German on or near his farm ...VW's included.

[@stonefree67]

What an amazing story! And what amazingly captivating storytelling as usual! Can almost feel the smell of gunpowder in my livingroom! Thanks,Chris!

[@TheHistoryChap]

My opleasure. Glad you enjoyed.

[@AndrewCastlemaine]

A very moving and inspiring tale of one of our finest Kiwi cousins (I'm an Aussie)

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for posting.

[@bennichols1113]

ANZAC brother.

[@jeremywestenra4178]

My father joined the NZ army at the same time as Charlie Upham...they were good friends and at school together and 20th Battalion together, same actions nth Africa, greece, crete, libya. Dad was sent home to NZ on the first furlough having been at war for four years. I saw quite a bit of the Upham family incl Charlie during ensuing years. A more modest and unassuming man you could not find

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your interesting feedback

[@ragnarl9130]

Absolutely fantastic, what a man

[@TheHistoryChap]

thanks for watching my video

[@stevenlynas8930]

What an inspirational man. In an age when male role models seem to be in short supply its great to be reminded of a time when men were men! And this was a very fine man indeed. You are right to be proud of him New Zealand

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

[@johnhehir508]

Is that where corporal Jones from dads army portrayed by Clive dunne got that catchphrase , they don't, like it upham 😂😂😂😂 just kidding, another three stripe tale from the history chap 🤔🙈🙉🙊👍👍​@@TheHistoryChap

[@jamesnbd57]

Perfect for Anzac Day, thank you

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure.

[@Michael-ws7rc]

Holy cow! The escape attempts alone are enough to make this guy a legend!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video

[@CaptCanuck4444]

Why hasn't this man's story been made into a feature film? The part that brings me to tears is his refusal to accept the $10,000 award (equivalent to $540,000 today), and his desire that it benefit the families of other soldiers who didn't make it home. So often these heroes have survivor guilt, and are profoundly uncomfortable being celebrated when they are haunted by the memories of all the good men they couldn't save. Watching this man's episode of "This Is Your Life" is so poignant, and the look in his eyes reminds me so much of interviews later in life with Maj. Dick Winters of Easy Company (Band of Brothers).

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for watching the video and for taking the time to comment

[@theinigosilvastation6232]

Hearing these stories blows me away. I cannot believe that these stories of courage and sacrifice are not well known and you couldn’t imagine how these brave men fought on their feet to save lives and honor our children. Incredible! 😊

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching & your comment.

[@gavreynolds2689]

You should have shown the most iconic photo of him and some would say one of the most iconic photos of the war depicting someone who couldn't give a toss about being a German prisoner and that is the photo taken just after the failed escape where he fell between the fences he laid entangled in barbwire, smiling whilst smoking a cigarette. His comments to the 2 lowly ranked Germans guards who found him was also legendary and showed his complete disdain for the Germans and his true Kiwi mindset. I'm Aussie and have no trouble in giving this great man his earnt respect.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your interesting feedback.

[@tamojitghosh52]

Great man - hope we lives in our memory for ages

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video

[@albertanderson6770]

Charles Upham was a modest and humble man he often talked about others first before he talked about himself which he very really did. He always maintained others did more than him and didnt like to be in the limelight when the attention was on him.

[@bill_heywood]

Fascinating. 2 VCs and a Colditz old boy, what a man

[@TheHistoryChap]

Don't make many like him.

[@jamesmcgeever9405]

What a brave and wonderful man, great story.

[@davidendsor219]

Excellent story, and its good to see he had a long and happy life that he had clearly earned.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice words. Thanks for posting.

[@thedisabledwelshman9266]

@@TheHistoryChap keep them coming chris.

[@helveticaification]

What a remarkable yet modest hero. How proud his family / descendants must be ! Nil Carborundum.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I bet they are proud of him.

[@harryshriver6223]

What an amazing journey of true hero, truly humbled and respectful 🙏 I was truly impressed with his determination and his accuracy with grenades! RIP Mr. Upham and kudos to you, amigo for bringing such an amazing story to life.

[@TheHistoryChap]

And woe betide you, if you turned up on his farm, driving a German car!

[@looseunit1615]

As an ex New Zealand soldier I remember talking about Captain Upham's military achievements. He was one tough Kiwi.

[@mattyallen3396]

Its strange how the regular soldiers give the TF soldiers shit...... Its my understanding that most of our medals were won by TF Soldiers

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@darrenmarsh8830]

What an incredible chap, his self sacrificing heroics has one both admiring his bravery and laughing with slight disbelief at his determination to remain unshackled. Thankyou once again for yet another entertaining lecture, I look forward to the next.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your support

[@andrewsteele7663]

Good morning, Chris I have heard Charles story a couple times. But yours had me on the edge of my office chair and coffee going cold. What a brilliant man. I think we could do with a lot more like him to sign up right now. As always, brilliantly told, I had goose bumps at the end. Cheers

[@TheHistoryChap]

Very kind of you. Thanks for watching.

[@johnneutralobserver5944]

Incredible inspiring and noble man

[@lew832]

Excellent video. Incredible account of a Brave, decent man.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching

[@michaelhayden5264]

Apparently when King George VI was asked to sign the instrument awarding the second VC he specifically asked the general and senior public servant if this second VC was warrented. As I understand the general said words to the effect that he should have received at one additional medals (so effectively 3 VCs). On return to NZ he continued to be a humble man, refusing the offer of the nation buying or presenting with a farm. He of course refused all requests to stand for the NZ Parliament. His one " vice" (if you can call it that) he refused to travel in or allow any vehicle made in Germany on to his property. When he dies (1994?) ALL (yes the whole nation) New Zealand stopped for two minutes.

[@TheHistoryChap]

What an amazing man thanks for sharing that story

[@tonylove4800]

Also turned down a knighthood.

[@steverosie4641]

Yep, he chased a salesman off his farm cos the guy drove up in a VW.

[@fredazcarate4818]

Here is the braves of Common Wealth soldiers. A true mans man in every sense of the word. I am deeply touched by his humility and simple valour . Sir thank you for sharing the tale of this galant individual. I hope you continue on producing brilliant mini documentaries. Once again thank you and God bless Sir.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching

[@philstanton231]

There is a nice statue to Charlie Upham on the main road in Amberly township just north of Christchurch - agree, thanks for telling his, as as well as the others, heroic stories - cheers mate

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed.

[@hamishrobson4385]

Wow, this New Zealand officer displayed true leadership qualities and a 'can do' attitude. Very inspirational.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@steverosie4641]

He was an exemplary Sgt before that!!

[@misssis1935]

What a legend of a man! Also a very apt story for ANZAC Day too.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I'm glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching & posting.

[@Al-iv3mb]

This read like an episode of that wonderful 1970s Michael Palin series, 'Ripping Yarns'. Thanks Chris for bringing the story of this gentleman ( the word used so often has become devalued but in this case it's valid) a true hero.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching my video and also for taking the time to comment. If you haven’t already, please do subscribe to my channel, so you don’t miss future stories.

[@Al-iv3mb]

@@TheHistoryChap subscribed.

[@nigelhamilton815]

We are so fortunate to have such steadfast allies. Salute to you all on Anzac day and thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice words.

[@nigelhamilton815]

@@TheHistoryChap sincerely meant.

[@WNH3]

Good call on ANZAC Day. I can only think Chris planned that.

[@rogerkay8603]

What a guy, we need men like him now.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for watching my video

[@allanburt5250]

What a story..... we use words like hero and inspiration too often for too little these days. This incredible man and his like show what it really means.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching

[@stephenbrown1077]

Amazing story and man. Thankyou so much for sharing.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@TheRobby1971]

Absolutely brilliant Chris, your passion and enthusiasm which incidentally is always high was off the scale for our modest double VC winner.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your kind words.

[@michaelevans7247]

Good Morning Chris Hope you are well Captain Bam Limbu VC died on 22 April 2023 Another amazing Story from a very Brave Man .

[@TheHistoryChap]

Michael, thanks for that timely reminder. I will add him to my list for the future.

[@nicholasdavies6264]

This guy was a badass! Respect 👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

thanks for the feedback

[@richardbostwick4193]

Another fantastic story, what an incredibly humble hero!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed

[@benrobertson7855]

Great,especially as it was Anzac Day yesterday( 25 th) thanks.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure

[@warrenmilford6848]

There were also Australian troops who fought in Crete along with the British, Greek and New Zealand troops you mentioned at 2-51.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@harrycurrie9664]

Yes I read the attack to take the airfield at Maleme was meant to start at 06:30 but was eventually called off because the Australian contingent of the attack did not arrive until 08:30 ... full daylight and no hope of surprise.

[@CRAIG5835]

In the eighties I was lucky enough to see Captain Upham in the flesh while walking in the city of Wellington, our Capital. I was fully aware of who the great man was and although really wanting to say hello to him, he was crossing the road coming straight towards me, there was not another soul around so it was now or never. I was so in awe of just seeing him in the flesh that to be honest, I chickened out and just stood there amazed and never said boo to him such was my Respec.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Wow, what an experience. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@CRAIG5835]

Happy to share sir.@@TheHistoryChap

[@rob5944]

This fantastic story exceeded my expectations. What a character, the stuff of boys own. He certainly deserved not only his medals, but a long and happy marriage! I'm glad he did.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@robcarter55]

A great video thanks I am sitting at home having been signed off by the doctor for the second week with a chest infection and antibiotics and although I realise it's a different time watching such a story does have to make me feel a fraud on some level when I see and hear what such men endured. True heroes .

[@TheHistoryChap]

Hope your recovery goes well. Best wishes from Worcester.

[@derisly]

I had the pleasure of meeting Charlie. He sat down and told us teenagers war stories at the local country xmas bbq. Great memory. Molly was also a really great person. Their farm was in Claverley just south of the Conway river .

[@TheHistoryChap]

Wow, what an incredible memory. Thanks for sharing.

[@alexdieudonne1924]

As a New Zealander, well researched his farm is just up the road and locals still remember him. Well done history chap !.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching

[@Starman2319]

Fantastic vid'. Thank you for your hard work on bringing their stories to us. We will remember them.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your support.

[@BMW7series251]

What a man and what a story! Many thanks for posting.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to watch.

[@alanchalkley4157]

Loved this series Chris, great job.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you.

[@Chiller01]

Fascinating story about an extraordinary Kiwi.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@DonQuixote547]

What an incredible man. They don't make them like this anymore.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@alanle1471]

An amazing person. Incredible soldier. He deserved so much more credit than he received.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@francoistombe]

In 1955 young Queen Elizabeth visited New Zealand. There was a reception where a bunch of boring politicians and VIPs were to hang out with her Majesty. Upham was added to the list to pack in some colour. As it turned out she and he spent a lot of time together in a corner talking while she ignored all the politicians. Asked afterwards, he said that they shared a love of horses and that is what they were talking about.

[@garymoore2535]

You don't get a VC & Bar out of Cornflake packets......the VC is THE highest military honour you can get......cast from the bronze from a Napoleonic Canon no less ! Two of them very very very rare. Recognition....I should say so ! ❤ 🇳🇿🇬🇧

[@charlesriley23]

Thanks for bringing this man's story to light. Now, wish it or not, he will have honor in my memory...

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice words.

[@johnhenderson131]

5:04 Mr. Upham is more than merely brave, he is an outstanding human being, very humble and generous, a man of Honor! He is a very brave man with a natural head for combat and the rare ability to remain calm under terrifying combat conditions and still think clearly. Most people/soldiers, especially their first time under fire, are so terrified they are overwhelmed, suffer tunnel vision and shut down (which is why soldiers are trained by monotonous repetition) becoming a useless liability. He’s the rare type that is both, brave and clear thinking under fire. It’s been my experience that unfortunately there’s a price to pay later for the fear suppressed in combat, physical, emotional and often long term. Upham sounds like he was an outstanding, determined character. A very Tough Rascal and likely annoying as hell! If you try to escape 100 times you only need to be successful 1% of the time to succeed,, seems to be his mindset rather than planning an escape!

[@billwalker2122]

Awesome video. My father fought in the same unit and knew him well. He said Upham had "crazy courage" and was just too determined to let a bunch of "bloody Germans" defeat him. He took it very personally when they shot at his men.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment too.

[@geoffreyclarke9658]

Must respectively protest, the Australian 2nd AIF played a very major role both in the tragic Greece campaign and subsequently on Crete, ie; not just the British, Greek & NZ troops, thank you for the moving story of the brave kiwi.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video and thanks for the informative comment

[@bigblue6917]

Thanks, History Chap. It's interesting how these three men have similar traits as well as connections between them.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Yes, isn't it interesting how they showed similar traits.

[@kcirdorb9591]

Wow! What a story....True war hero.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video

[@keithlloyd4254]

What a fine man he was &, like other men of his stamp, a humble & modest one. He is a fine example for any boy to follow though winning 2 V.C.s might be difficult. We all owe the men & women of those days a huge debt for their selflessness & self sacrifice. My father was a timberfaller - felling trees- so in a reserved occupation & would never be called up, however, he enlisted in the Grenadier Guards & later the Special Service Brigade - army commandos. He took part in Operation Chariot, the raid on St. Nazaire, the greatest raid of all. A man of 22-23 with everything to live for was ready to die if necessary to attack the Nazis. The commandos were gathered together & told by Mountbatten that, given the suicidal nature of the operation, any man could withdraw without any stain on their character or honour. There were 300 plus men there, of that number not a man withdrew. With soldiers like Charles Upham & the rest, how could we lose?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Keith, thanks for taking the time to post such a thoughtful comment.

[@nickmorales8146]

Thank you history that was a great story I knew of the two that got the Victoria Cross but I didn't know about 3rd and that was pretty impressive guy I would have liked to have met him in real life it just sounds like a really down-to-earth guy may he rest in peace

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice words. Thanks for posting.

[@joeritchie4554]

What an amazing man! Thank you for sharing his heroic story with us. What a tough warrior.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@lesliepun3494]

Another instructive video, Chris. I did not know that both Captains Upham and Chavasse were linked via Mary McTamney. Just thought of a Dad's Army link to this video "They don't like it up'em" or Charles Up and at them Upham. What a great man.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Leslie, you aren't the first person to utter Corporal Jones' line!

[@matauboy]

And I think by a strange quirk of overlapping communication he was actually recommended for a third Cross. I live next to the Charles Upham retirement village and Kippenbergers house is just down the road. Thanks for making this video.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

[@JesusSanchez-ul2ex]

A fighter true valor and gallantry under dures . Beautiful and fascinating story told Blessing

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@johnstirling6597]

Lots of stories about Charles Upham. After his second VC investiture he was walking through a park in London when a passing General started to excoriate him for "not saluting" until the General noticed the VC and bar he was wearing and apologised, also I believe that until his dying day he refused to allow "German" vehicles on his farm.

[@TheHistoryChap]

John, thanks for sharing. Great story about the general!

[@suziederkins3310]

The story was that the general said " don't you colonials salute your superior officers?" And quick a flash Upham said "dreadfully sorry sir, but I have just been up at the palace talking to King George, and he didn't seem too worried about saluting anyone" and then the general saw the colour on Uphams chest, and saluted him.

[@nigelmcquinlan1887]

Correct- NO German Or Japanese vehicles STOP. Legend.

[@brettcurtis5710]

That story about German vehicles is true - one of his daughters bought a VW Beetle while at University in Christchurch - when she came home to the farm for a break, he told her to leave it at the gate - a 3km walk to the homestead!

[@robturvey9156]

What an absolutely fabulous man and thanks for a brilliant presentation of his story.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@Nobby20]

Massive Respevt Sir

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for our comment & for watching my video

[@beegeenz]

Ive heard an unproven rumour that he was actually recommended for a third Victoria Cross but his second medal combined the information which had been submitted for the third Cross. The hierarchy couldn’t believe that anyone could be awarded an unprecedented Victoria Cross.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I have heard something like that too.

[@basil3125]

😅i too spoke with some one who had a fair bit of contact with Charlies Upham an he too stated that he was nominated for a third VC but as this was unheard of it was refused.

[@DarrenMarsh-kx8hd]

Humility and bravery do seem to go hand in hand. What an inspirational man, thank you for bringing his story to life.

[@TheHistoryChap]

As you enjoy my work please do sign up for my weekly newsletter at my website: www.thehistorychap.com

[@DarrenMarsh-kx8hd]

@@TheHistoryChap I have subscribed, or at least I think I have, but I'm yet to receive an email. The chances are that I've done something incorrectly, so I'll try again.

[@colinsmith7465]

Hi Chris,great video on the amazing Charles Upham,an absolute legend!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.

[@buonafortuna8928]

Great vid, what an absolute legend Upham was.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Don’t give the man a grenade!

[@russbarker2727]

Thank you, Chris, for that. Cpt Upham's biography "Mark of the lion" is a great read, as is your story to listen to. I have a rather tenuous link to two of these double VC winners, in the I now live in New Zealand, and went to the same school in England, (Magdalen College School, Oxford), as Cpt Noel Chavasse. Have you ever thought of writing a book? I for one would certainly buy it.Once again, thank you Sir.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Russ, a tenuous link is good enough for me!

[@jonathanmawdesley-thomas1863]

Inspiring story , gallantly told . Pretty understated / modest these NZ guys , what a great bloke ( love the fact he wanted to start as private , when he was a sergeant in the reserves ) .

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@leedscab123]

To win a VC is amazing achievement, winning it twice leaves me lost for words. If it wasn’t for Lieutenant Colonel Wilfrith Elstob VC, DSO, MC who commanded the 16th Service Batallion of the Manchester Regiment in WW1 I very likely would not be hear watching and listening to this.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to share

[@NiSiochainGanSaoirse]

To put the gravity of the V.C into perspective, it doesn't matter how many qualifications one might achieve, nor educational accreditations. It doesn't matter if one is a royal family member, Doctor, master of this or that, or the chief of the police force in Britain... No matter HOW many letters a person has behind their names, the letters "V.C" come first. That's how highly regarded the V.C award is in Britain. It trumps literally EVERYTHING else.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your feedback

[@asterixdogmatix1073]

Thank you!

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure.

[@anthonypeacock6230]

Another excellent telling of a historical event, very educational and what a man. keep up the great work.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@stupeters8409]

What an incredible story what an amazing man. Should be a movie made about this story. Even as an Aussie I'm proud of this Kiwi legend.

[@TheHistoryChap]

It certainly would make a great film wouldn’t it?

[@davidwoods7720]

Thanks Chris

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thank you for watching

[@Thomo2461]

Chris, another amazing individual now immortalised in history by your stories. Is there a book in the pipeline? If so I'll have a signed copy when available. This aside, another individual deserving your attention who proved that even the most humble of us in times of adversity and danger, selflessness acts of courage prevail and this must not be forgotten by all. He remained humble after the war helping others as well. Amazing person. Thanks Chris

[@TheHistoryChap]

Tomo, thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@paulmcewen]

Two books on Charles Upham ww2 exploits. The Mark Of Lion by Ken Sandford and recently another good read Searching For Charlie, by Tom Scott. I actually have a first edition of The Mark Of The Lion by Ken Sandford a bit battered and worn but actually sighed by Charles Upham this book belonged to my late father.

[@tacraling]

What an incredible man! Thank you for bringing this story to us.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure

[@stephenpegum9776]

Another truly fascinating tale & very well told as usual Chris 👏👏

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your kind words

[@davidjacksonjackson3212]

It is now in these days of unrest in the world we need people like this to install forgotten pride in our young people, and our politicians need to take note and start being honest and truthful as this great man was, Charles upham hero

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@rodeastell3615]

What a guy ... fictional heroes cannot ever replicate the actions by men like this. Great video.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.