it was during the battle for Arras in Northern France that Harold exhibited extraordinary bravery in the face of the enemy. It was for this battle that he received his Victoria Cross. During the assault, Harold was badly wounded and both his legs were broken by an enemy shell, but he bravely remained with his gun, refusing to turn back and urging others to take cover. He continued firing and inflicted great damage on the enemy. His valour was instrumental in breaking up an impending counter-attack. Though in a critical condition and not expected to survive, he was brought back to England for several operations. Pieces of shrapnel had to be extracted from his tongue, hip and arm and eight of his teeth had to be removed. As a direct result of his injuries, both Harold's legs were amputated above the knee. He was just 23.