KNELSTROM CHRONICLES - ISAAC LODGE VC 470

Isaac Lodge VC (6 May 1866 – 18 June 1923) was a distinguished English soldier who earned the coveted Victoria Cross (VC), the highest and most prestigious military decoration awarded for acts of valor and gallantry in the face of hostile forces, specifically bestowed upon individuals serving in the British and Commonwealth armed services.

​At the time of his heroic act, Lodge was 33 years old and was a gunner in the "Q" Battery of the Royal Horse Artillery within the British Army during the tumultuous period of the Second Boer War. The remarkable feat that led to his Nobel recognition occurred on 31 March 1900 at Sanna's Post, also known as Korn Spruit, in South Africa.

On that fateful day, "Q" Battery and "U" Battery of the Royal Horse Artillery found themselves in a precarious situation when they were unexpectedly ambushed. The attack resulted in significant losses, including much of the baggage column and five gun carriages from the leading battery. As panic ensued and the alarm was sounded, the men of "Q" Battery sprang into action, positioning themselves to engage the enemy from approximately 1,150 yards from the Spruit.

Despite overwhelming circumstances, Lodge and his comrades worked tirelessly under Major Edmund John Phipps-Hornby's command, who would later be honoured with the Victoria Cross. When the order to retreat was finally issued, Major Phipps-Hornby employed a strategic manoeuvre, instructing his men to hand-pull the guns and limbers back to a safer location rather than abandoning them.

This gruelling and physically taxing operation involved immense effort, determination, and bravery as the soldiers faced relentless pressure from the enemy. Their determination was unwavering, even in the face of overwhelming circumstances. Among those who partook in this extraordinary endeavour were Gunner Isaac Lodge, Sergeant Charles Parker (who also received the VC), and Driver Horace Glassock (similarly awarded the VC).

Despite the intensity of the situation, the soldiers managed to execute their plan, successfully relocating all but one of the guns and a single limber to a secure area. This was a testament to their exceptional teamwork, each soldier playing a crucial role in the operation. Once the retreat was completed, the battery was then reformed, highlighting the remarkable unity and courage displayed by Lodge and his fellow soldiers during a time of great danger.

The bravery demonstrated by Isaac Lodge and his companions reflected their commitment to duty and exemplified the selflessness and courage foundational to the Victoria Cross's spirit. His legacy is forever etched in the annals of military history as a testament to the heroism displayed in the face of adversity.