Personal info
- Name: CHATTA SINGH
- D.O.B: 1st Jan, 1887
- D.O.A: 13th Jan, 1916
- D.O.D: 26th Mar, 1961
- Award: Victoria Cross
- Occupation at time of action: Sepoy, 9th Bhopal Infantry, 21st Brigade, 7th Meerut Division, Indian Army
- Book: The Complete History - Volume 2
The Wadi, Mesopotamia 13 January 1916
13 January 1916
The First World War Mesopotamia 1915-1918
In the Battle of the Wadi on 13 January 1916, in which Captain J A Sinton VC, Indian Medical Service, also distinguished himself, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas, CO of the 9th Bhopal Infantry, was shot in the leg within 200 yards of the Turkish trenches on the far side of the Wadi. As he lay out in the open, Sepoy Chatta Singh left cover to assist him and remained with him for five hours. For this gallant act he was awarded the VC. Thomas died later from his wounds. During the night, the enemy withdrew.
Citation
For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty in leaving cover to assist his Commanding Officer who was lying wounded and helpless in the open. Sepoy Chatta Singh bound up the Officer’s wound and then dug cover for him with his entrenching tool, being exposed all the time to very heavy rifle fire. For five hours until nightfall he remained beside the wounded Officer, shielding him with his own body on the exposed side. He then, under cover of darkness, went back for assistance, and brought the Officer into safety.