The family of a decorated World War I hero who fell on hard times has shared his story for Remembrance Day, and hopes that with the community’s help, they will one day be reunited with the medals he lost.  

Growing up in Raeburn Road, Keith Stafford would often amuse himself playing with the contents of a burgundy and cream Marconi Radio case: coins, cottons – and five miniature medals won by an uncle named Sam. 

Private Samuel Harvey was born in Nottingham in 1881, but spent almost all his life in Ipswich, moving there with his parents when he was just three years old. 

As a young man, Sam was often in trouble, pinching cigarettes and being thrown out of the army on a misconduct charge in 1904 (although he rejoined the following year). 

Ipswich Star: Private Samuel Harvey was 34 when he found himself fighting for his country in the Battle of Loos. Image: Keith StaffordPrivate Samuel Harvey was 34 when he found himself fighting for his country in the Battle of Loos. Image: Keith Stafford (Image: Keith Stafford)

Ipswich Star: Keith Stafford grew up hearing stories of his war hero great uncle Samuel. Image: Keith StaffordKeith Stafford grew up hearing stories of his war hero great uncle Samuel. Image: Keith Stafford (Image: Keith Stafford)

In 1914, the First World War was declared, and Sam’s courage was put to the test. 

It was during the battle known as Big Push that a Commanding Officer asked for a volunteer to fetch more grenades, for ammunition was running dangerously low. 

Sam volunteered, and made his way through trenches teeming with the bodies of his fellow soldiers. 

His mission was to collect large, bulky wooden boxes, each containing 30 Mills Bombs, to bring to the battlefront.  

The route back was long and slow-going, so Sam made the decision to run over open ground, exposing himself to extreme danger on every run. After more than 13 hours, a total of 360 grenades were safely delivered.  

However, whilst carrying the final box just yards from the British trenches, Sam’s luck ran out, and he took a bullet to the head. 

Incredibly, Sam lived to tell the tale and was awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery, presented to him by King George V.

The story that Keith grew up hearing, when the medal was pinned to Sam’s chest, he turned to Queen Mary standing beside the King, winked, and said loudly, “Mine’s a pint!” 

Ipswich Star: Samuel Harvey being presented with his Victoria Cross by King George V and Queen Mary. Image: Keith StaffordSamuel Harvey being presented with his Victoria Cross by King George V and Queen Mary. Image: Keith Stafford (Image: Keith Stafford)Ipswich Star: Sam died in Stowmarket in 1960, aged 79. Image: Keith StaffordSam died in Stowmarket in 1960, aged 79. Image: Keith Stafford (Image: Keith Stafford)Ipswich Star: In 2014, a headstone was erected and a tree was planted in Ipswich Cemetery in memory of Private Samuel Harvey, to mark the centenary of World War I. Image: NewsquestIn 2014, a headstone was erected and a tree was planted in Ipswich Cemetery in memory of Private Samuel Harvey, to mark the centenary of World War I. Image: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

Life was difficult for Sam in the years to come. He became heavily dependent on alcohol, and could often be found sleeping rough on the steps of the Town Hall during the 1950s. 

Sam died in Stowmarket in 1960, aged 79. Several of his service medals were missing, as was his Victoria Cross. Sam always said he didn’t remember losing his VC, although one theory is that he gave it to a barman in exchange for beer. 

This Remembrance Day, Sam’s family will be reflecting on the bravery their great uncle showed, and hoping that one day, they will be reunited with the medals acknowledging his sacrifice. 

Do you know where Private Samuel Harvey’s lost medals are? Contact abygail.fossett@newsquest.co.uk