Henry Clifford V.C.

His Letters and Sketches from the Crimea

First published in 1956, this book is a rich collection of letters written by Major-General Sir Henry Clifford during his service in the Crimean War, where he received the appointment of aide-de-camp to Sir George Brown, commanding the light division, and was present at Alma and Inkerman. For his gallantry in the latter battle, Clifford was decorated with the Victoria Cross, in honour of leading one of the charges, killing one of the enemy with his sword, disabling another, and saving the life of a soldier.

“In reading these letters one cannot fail to be impressed by the noble character of the writer: a man of great courage, both moral and physical, a fine leader of men, and a first-rate officer, quick in his grasp of a difficult situation, forthright in his opinions and criticisms. Even by our standards of today he would certainly be classed as well above the average of his rank. […]

It is a great privilege to read these frank and vivid letters of 100 years ago and to learn from them at first hand of the courage and endurance of the British soldier in adversity.”

Richly illustrated throughout with Clifford’s own sketches and notes, plus three maps.