On a poignant Auckland morning, the legacy of one of the New Zealand Army’s Victoria Cross recipients was passed onto the next generation. The Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals (RNZSigs) and the Royal New Zealand Corps of Engineers (RNZE) presented replica sets of Lieutenant Colonel (LTCOL) Cyril Bassett VC’s medals to his family at an intimate ceremony at the Auckland War Memorial Museum’s Hall of Memories, where the original medals are housed.
Represented by Bassett VC’s 92-year-old daughter Cherry Bramwell, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, the family received four sets of replica miniatures, including the Victoria Cross, the 1914-15 star for Gallipoli, the British 1914-18 War medal, the Victory medal, the 1939-1945 War medal, the New Zealand 1939-45 War Service medal, the King George VI 1937 coronation medal, the Queen Elizabeth II 1953 coronation medal, the Queen Elizabeth II 1977 Silver Jubilee medal, the New Zealand Efficiency Medal, and the New Zealand 12-year Territorial Service medal.
The initiative to create these replicas began in September 2022 when LTCOL Bassett VC’s granddaughter reached out to the RNZSigs Corps Warrant Officer, expressing the family’s desire for copies of his medals. Warrant Officer Class One James Peffers, from RNZSigs, coordinated the effort to provide the family with the replica sets, sponsored by ANZ, Auckland RSA, and Auckland District RSA.
WO1 Peffers highlighted the importance of maintaining the connection with LTCOL Bassett VC’s descendants, emphasizing the significance of honoring his memory. As the only Signaller ever awarded the Victoria Cross, Bassett’s legacy continues to inspire reverence within the military community.
Cyril Bassett VC, born in Auckland in 1892, was a bank worker who volunteered for service abroad during World War I as part of New Zealand’s Territorial Force. His heroic actions during the Gallipoli Campaign led to the award of the Victoria Cross. Bassett continued his service during World War II, reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and serving as Commander of Signals in the Northern Military District before retiring and becoming a Justice of the Peace in Devonport.
His dedication to duty and exemplary service set a high standard for future generations. The presentation of the replica medals symbolizes a lasting tribute to his courage and sacrifice, ensuring that his story and legacy will endure for generations to come.
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