Remembering the Battle of Mons: The Courage of The Royal Fusiliers
- Regiment Support News
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
On 23 August 1914, British forces fought their first major battle of the First World War near the Belgian town of Mons.
This Sunday, on the 112th anniversary of the Battle of Mons, the Regiment Support Service will remember all those who fought during the battle and pays particular tribute to the remarkable courage of two soldiers from the 4th Battalion, The Royal Fusiliers.
The Defence of Nimy Bridge
As German forces advanced towards the British positions, Lieutenant Maurice Dease and Private Sidney Godley helped defend the railway bridge at Nimy.
Despite coming under intense enemy fire, Lieutenant Dease continued operating his machine gun after other members of his section had been killed or wounded. He remained at his post until he was mortally wounded.
Private Godley then continued defending the bridge alone, despite suffering serious injuries. His actions helped hold back the advancing German forces and allowed other members of the battalion to withdraw.
For their exceptional bravery, Lieutenant Dease and Private Godley received the first Victoria Crosses awarded during the First World War. Lieutenant Dease’s award was made posthumously, while Private Godley survived his wounds and a period as a prisoner of war.
Key Facts and Figures
Date: August 23, 1914
Location: Mons–Condé Canal, Belgium
British Force (BEF): ~75,000 to 90,000 men led by Field Marshal Sir John French
German Force: ~160,000 men led by Alexander von Kluck
Casualties: ~1,600 British losses against an estimated 5,000+ German casualties
Battle Highlights
The Rifle Fire: British troops fired so fast with their Lee-Enfield rifles that German forces thought they faced heavy machine guns.
Victoria Crosses: Lieutenant Maurice Dease and Private Sydney Godley won the first British Victoria Crosses of the war for defending Nimy Bridge.
The Retreat: Despite holding the canal for 24 hours, the British had to pull back as more German troops crossed, sparking the long Retreat from Mons.
A Proud Regimental Legacy
The courage demonstrated by the 4th Battalion, The Royal Fusiliers, at Nimy Bridge remains an important part of the proud history and traditions inherited by today’s Fusiliers.
The Regiment Support Service is honoured to support The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and the Fusiliers Aid Society, which provides vital welfare and benevolent assistance to serving and former Fusiliers and their families.
As we remember the Battle of Mons, we honour the courage, comradeship and sacrifice of all those who served and ensure that their stories continue to be told to future generations.
We will remember them.
