MINI BIO

Henry was apprenticed to become a builder after his schooling and was working as a carpenter when he enlisted in Feb 16.
Embarking for Europe 3 months later, he was posted to 1st Battalion Canterbury Regiment.
3 Dec 1917, he was involved in an attack on Polderhoek Chateau.  The advance was being slowed by heavy machine-gun fire. Henry
rushed forward by himself and captured an enemy strong point saving many casualties.  For his exceptional bravery and valour he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Promoted to Sergeant June 1918, he was presented with his VC by King George V at an investiture at Buckingham Palace in July 1918.
Late Sept 1918 he was awarded a MM for actions during the Hundred Days Offensive.
Oct 18 he was killed when a guard post he was manning was attacked.
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LONDON GAZETTE

No. 30472

11 January 1918

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For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in attack. Private Nicholas, who was one of a Lewis gun section, had orders to form a defensive flank to the right of the advance, which was checked by heavy machine-gun and rifle fire from an enemy strong-point. Whereupon, followed by the remainder of his section at an interval of about 25 yards, Private Nicholas rushed forward alone, shot the officer in command of the strong-point, and overcame the remainder of the garrison of sixteen with bombs and bayonets, capturing four wounded prisoners and a machine-gun. He captured this strong-point practically single-handed, and thereby saved many casualties. Subsequently, when the advance reached its limit, Private Nicholas collected ammunition under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire. His exceptional valour and coolness throughout the operations afforded an inspiring example to all.