James Heather Gordon

James Heather Gordon March 7, 1909-July 24, 1986 was an Australian recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

Related Topics:
March 7 - 1909 - July 24 - 1986 - Australia - Victoria Cross - British - Commonwealth

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Gordon was born in Rockingham, Western Australia and grew up in Gingin, Western Australia. He was a Private in the 2/31st Battalion (a unit formed in Queensland & Victoria), Australian Military Forces during the Syria-Lebanon campaign of World War II when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

Related Topics:
Rockingham, Western Australia - Gingin, Western Australia - Private - Australian Military Forces - Syria-Lebanon campaign - World War II

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On July 10 1941 at Djezzine, Syria, Private Gordon's company was held up by intense machine-gun and grenade fire from Vichy French forces, but on his own initiative, he crept forward alone and succeeded in getting close to the machine-gun post. He then charged it and killed the four machine-gunners. His action completely demoralized the enemy in this sector and the company advanced and took the position.

Related Topics:
July 10 - 1941 - Djezzine - Syria - Vichy French

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He later achieved the rank of Warrant Officer II.

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In 1942 a painting of Jim Gordon by artist William Dargie won the Archibald Prize, Australia's most famous portrait prize.

Related Topics:
William Dargie - Archibald Prize

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