NAM.1984-04-30-28

‘Capt. Gerald R. O’Sullivan, V.C.’, 1915. Cigarette card, No 54 from the 3rd series of ‘The Great War Victoria Cross Heroes’, a set of 25 cigarette cards, issued by Gallaher Limited, Belfast and London, 1915. Portrait of Captain Gerald Robert O’Sullivan (1888-1915), wearing his Victoria Cross, after a photograph by Bassano. The reverse of the card summarises O’Sullivan’s act of gallantry. It records that, ‘Capt. Gerald Robert O’Sullivan, V.C. (1st Batt. Royal Inniskilling Fus.) won this honour near Krithia, Gallipoli, July 1-2nd, 1915. A portion of lost trench had to be retaken and although in no way compelled, Capt O’Sullivan volunteered and led a party to the attack. During the action he was frequently fully exposed, and soon wounded, but so effectively bombed the enemy, that the trench was finally recaptured’. O’Sullivan was evacuated to Egypt but, after recovering from his wound, he returned to Gallipoli. He was killed in action on 21 August 1915. His body was never identified or recovered. His Victoria Cross was delivered to his mother in England. Associated with World War One, Gallipoli (1915-1916), 1915. From ‘The Great War Victoria Cross Heroes’, a set of cigarette cards (200 in full set) issued by Gallaher Limited, 1915-1916. Associated with World War One (1914-1918). One of 103 cigarette cards, nd.

World War One, Gallipoli (1915-1916)