Sailor. Born Jack Foreman Mantle in Wandsworth. He was a leading seaman on HMS Foylebank in Portland Harbour, and was in charge of a 2-pounder gun, known as a 'pom-pom'.
On 4th July 1940, the ship was attacked by enemy aircraft and his left leg was shattered by a bomb. The ship's electric power had failed, but he went on firing with his hand gun until he took his own life.
For his bravery he was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross - the only occasion that the medal was awarded for action in British territorial waters.
Credit for this entry to: Alan Patient of plaquesoflondon.co.uk
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