British Heritage
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Charles Upham
Contribution of Charles Upham to British Heritage.
Charles Hazlitt Upham, VC & Bar, was a remarkable New Zealand soldier whose contributions during the Second World War left a lasting impact on British heritage. Upham's gallantry and valor in the face of the enemy earned him the Victoria Cross (VC) twice, a feat accomplished by only two other individuals in history. His exceptional leadership, tactical skill, and utter indifference to danger set him apart as one of the most highly decorated Commonwealth soldiers of the war, making him an inspiring figure in the annals of military history.
Charles Hazlitt Upham was born on 21st September 1908 in Christchurch, New Zealand, to John Hazlitt Upham, a lawyer, and Agatha Mary Coates. He displayed unusual determination and bravery from a young age, intervening to protect bullied schoolmates. Upham pursued his education at Waihi School and Christ's College in Christchurch, exhibiting a strong sense of duty and leadership qualities.
In 1930, Upham earned a diploma in agriculture from Canterbury Agricultural College (now Lincoln University) and subsequently worked as a sheep farmer and manager before joining the New Zealand government's Valuation Department. With the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, Upham enlisted in the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force (2NZEF) and became a part of the 20th Canterbury-Otago Battalion within the New Zealand 2nd Division.
Upham's exceptional bravery was first recognized during the Battle of Crete in May 1941, where he led his platoon through enemy defenses, destroying numerous enemy posts. He demonstrated remarkable audacity, including close-quarters combat with pistols and grenades, eliminating machine gun nests, and rescuing wounded comrades under fire. Upham's selfless actions inspired his entire platoon and contributed significantly to the success of the mission.
In July 1942, Upham's outstanding leadership and valor shone once again during the First Battle of El Alamein. Despite being wounded twice, he led his company in a daring assault on enemy positions, personally destroying a German tank and multiple guns and vehicles. Upham's courage, voice of encouragement, and strategic prowess were instrumental in capturing vital enemy strongholds and repelling counter-attacks.
Charles Upham's exceptional contributions to British heritage lie in his outstanding service during the Second World War. His extraordinary courage, tactical brilliance, and unwavering determination earned him the Victoria Cross, the Commonwealth's highest award for valor. Upham's achievements as the only combat soldier to receive the VC twice during the Second World War place him among the most decorated individuals in military history.
His legacy extends beyond his military accomplishments. After the war, Upham returned to New Zealand, where he became a successful farmer and contributed to the community through his service on the board of governors of Christ's College. Upham's dedication to education is reflected in the C. H. Upham Scholarship, established to support children of ex-servicemen in pursuing their studies at Lincoln University or the University of Canterbury.
Charles Upham's life and actions continue to inspire generations, reflecting the values of courage, selflessness, and leadership that epitomize British heritage. His memory is honored through various monuments, streets, and the HMNZS Charles Upham, a naval ship commissioned in recognition of his valor. Upham's legacy stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit and sacrifice of those who have served in the defense of freedom and liberty. His story serves as a beacon of inspiration for all those who aspire to stand bravely in the face of adversity, exemplifying the finest qualities of British and Commonwealth soldiers throughout history.
Early Life and Military Service
Charles Hazlitt Upham was born on 21st September 1908 in Christchurch, New Zealand, to John Hazlitt Upham, a lawyer, and Agatha Mary Coates. He displayed unusual determination and bravery from a young age, intervening to protect bullied schoolmates. Upham pursued his education at Waihi School and Christ's College in Christchurch, exhibiting a strong sense of duty and leadership qualities.
In 1930, Upham earned a diploma in agriculture from Canterbury Agricultural College (now Lincoln University) and subsequently worked as a sheep farmer and manager before joining the New Zealand government's Valuation Department. With the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, Upham enlisted in the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force (2NZEF) and became a part of the 20th Canterbury-Otago Battalion within the New Zealand 2nd Division.
First Victoria Cross
Upham's exceptional bravery was first recognized during the Battle of Crete in May 1941, where he led his platoon through enemy defenses, destroying numerous enemy posts. He demonstrated remarkable audacity, including close-quarters combat with pistols and grenades, eliminating machine gun nests, and rescuing wounded comrades under fire. Upham's selfless actions inspired his entire platoon and contributed significantly to the success of the mission.
Bar to Victoria Cross
In July 1942, Upham's outstanding leadership and valor shone once again during the First Battle of El Alamein. Despite being wounded twice, he led his company in a daring assault on enemy positions, personally destroying a German tank and multiple guns and vehicles. Upham's courage, voice of encouragement, and strategic prowess were instrumental in capturing vital enemy strongholds and repelling counter-attacks.
Legacy and Contribution to British Heritage
Charles Upham's exceptional contributions to British heritage lie in his outstanding service during the Second World War. His extraordinary courage, tactical brilliance, and unwavering determination earned him the Victoria Cross, the Commonwealth's highest award for valor. Upham's achievements as the only combat soldier to receive the VC twice during the Second World War place him among the most decorated individuals in military history.
His legacy extends beyond his military accomplishments. After the war, Upham returned to New Zealand, where he became a successful farmer and contributed to the community through his service on the board of governors of Christ's College. Upham's dedication to education is reflected in the C. H. Upham Scholarship, established to support children of ex-servicemen in pursuing their studies at Lincoln University or the University of Canterbury.
Charles Upham's life and actions continue to inspire generations, reflecting the values of courage, selflessness, and leadership that epitomize British heritage. His memory is honored through various monuments, streets, and the HMNZS Charles Upham, a naval ship commissioned in recognition of his valor. Upham's legacy stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit and sacrifice of those who have served in the defense of freedom and liberty. His story serves as a beacon of inspiration for all those who aspire to stand bravely in the face of adversity, exemplifying the finest qualities of British and Commonwealth soldiers throughout history.
- Charles Uphamen.wikipedia.org
