Two Lambeth war heroes who were awarded the Victoria Cross after their heroic actions in battle during the First World War were honoured this week.
Commemorative paving stones were laid near the birthplaces of Captain John Vallentin and Lieutenant John Dimmer.
Lambeth’s Mayor Adedamola Aminu presided over the ceremonies at Lambeth Palace and Jubilee Gardens.
He said: “I am honoured to have led the services commemorating the heroic actions of Captain Vallentin and Lieutenant Dimmer.
“We are immensely proud of these great soldiers and their fellow servicemen and women who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today.
“It is important that we never forget the sacrifice made by so many, and these commemorative stones will ensure that Captain Vallentin and Lt Dimmer will forever be remembered.”
Cpt Vallentin was bestowed the Victoria Cross ‘for conspicuous bravery’ at Zillebeke.
“We are immensely proud of these great soldiers and their fellow servicemen and women who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today.”
He led an attack against the Germans under a very heavy fire but was struck down, on rising to continue the attack he was immediately killed.
The capture of the enemy trenches that followed was due to the confidence the men had in the Captain, inspired by his previous acts of bravery and ability.
His remembrance stone has been placed at St Mary’s Garden, Lambeth Palace Road.
Lt John Dimmer was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions in the Battle of Ypres had his stone laid at Jubilee Gardens, Belvedere Rd.
Lt Dimmer manned a machine gun under intense fire, despite being shot five times he continued until his machine gun was destroyed.
His actions helped ensure the German attack failed and they retreated before reaching the British trenches.
Representatives of both men’s families and the armed forces were present at the ceremonies.
