Cemetery: Brighton City Cemetery (Bear Road)

Country: England

Area: Sussex

Rank: Warrant Officer Class II (C.S.M.)

Force: Army

Official Number: 391398

Unit: 2nd Bn. Royal Norfolk Regiment.

Country of Service: British

Details: V C 16th June 1940. Age 35. Son of George and Edith Emily Gristock of Sandhurst Berkshire. Sec. Z.G.L. Grave 28. The following details are given in the London Gazette of 23rd August 1940 : For most conspicuous gallantry on 21st May1940 when his company was holding a position on the line of the River Escaut south of Tournai. The enemy succeeded in breaking through beyond the company's right flank which was consequently threatened. C.S.M. Gristock organised a party of eight and went forward to cover the right flank. An enemy machine gun was inflicting heavy casualties on his company and he went on to try to put it out of action. Advancing under heavy fire he was severely wounded in both legs. He nevertheless gained his fire position and by well aimed rapid fire killed the crew and put the machine gun out of action. He dragged himself back but refused to be evacuated until the line had been made good. By his gallant action the position of the company was secure.

Photograph by Terry Denham/David Milborrow