Lot 200
A SILVER ARTIST RIFLES DISH by PROVENANCE PAUL BENNETT VC-MC.
A circular silver dish with Artists Rifles badge in the centre, with Hallmark for London 1919. Given to his Godson by Eugene Paul Bennet 2nd Worcester Regt, whose Victoria Cross was gazetted in 1916. Also two framed portrait photographs and a 1929 Victoria Cross Winners Dinner House of Lords Legion book, with presentation inscription.
Known by his middle name Paul he became a 2/Lt on the 1/1/1915 formerly Private Number 1253 28th London Regt, into the 2nd Worcestershire Regt. His VC was for an attack in November 1916.
Near Le Transloy, France, 5th November 1916. For most conspicuous bravery in action when in command of the second wave of the attack. Finding that the first wave had suffered heavy casualties, its commander killed and the line wavering, Lieut Bennett advanced at the head of the second wave, and by his personal example of valour and resolution reached his objective with but sixty men. Isolated with his small party, he at once took steps to consolidate his position under heavy rifle and machine-gun fire from both flanks, and, although wounded he remained in command directing and controlling. He set an example of cheerfulness and resolution beyond all praise, and there is little doubt that but for his personal courage the attack would have checked at the outset.
His Military Cross was awarded on January 1st 1916.
He was also Mentioned in Despatches by Sir John French.
Born Stroud Gloucester 12/1/1892 and educated at Marling School he enlisted in the Artists Rifles, whilst employed at the Bank of England. He went with his Regiment to France in October 19th 1914. Entitled to 1914 Star & Bar After the war in 1922 he married Violet Forster, they had two children. His son John died young of Pneumonia whilst at Eton, and his daughter Elizabeth died of Cancer in 1978 (served in the WRAF in WW11)
In later life he was a Lawyer a QC and a Magistrate, later retiring to live in Italy.
The famous painting by Gilbert Holiday of 2/Lt Bennett leading the charge with spade in hand, hangs in the Worcester Regiment Museum.
The Legion Book has the inset card details. This copy of 'The Legion Book' was presented by H R H The Prince of Wales to Captain E P Bennett VC.MC, on the occasion of the V.C's Dinner held in the House of Lords, London, on Saturday, November 9th 1929. The first formal portrait of Captain Bennett in Court Dress (QC) wearing his miniature medals. 19.1/4" x 13.1/4". The second in RAF uniform with VR collars, wearing his medal ribbons and ATC on the sleeve. 16.3/4" x 12.3/4" Both bear the studio signatures below the portraits.
See Illustration
