Victor H. Heron

Private, London Regiment (Artists’ Rifles)

Age 16, Class Marticulation: 'Quite satisfactory in every way. Progressing favourably.'

Victor H. Heron lived at 146 Leander Road, Brixton Hill with his parents, James and Minnie, and his younger brother and sister, William and Lilian. He was educated at Alleyn’s until 1913 where he won the Athletic Championship and was a House Prefect for Roper’s. He was known to have an attractive personality and to always give his best for the honour and good name of his House and the School. After leaving Alleyn’s, he continued to pursue his studies at London University and assisted in Wellcome Research Labs with the making of an anti-tetanus serum for troops. In January 1916, Victor decided to join the war effort. After being attested, he joined the London Regiment (Artists’ Rifles) and served overseas in France and Flanders. During this time, his brother, William H. Heron, also joined the war effort as part of the Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Victor often wrote letters to William and always encouraged his brother to remain positive and be cheerful. In late 1917, Victor was serving in Flanders during the final phase of the Third Battle of Ypres to capture Passchendaele Ridge. During this operation, he was killed in action on October 30^th 1917 as he faced relentless fire from the enemy while attempting to advance. He would be remembered by many of his comrades as an open, kind-hearted and selfless individual and he is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial.