3-065-899 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Captain Sir J. E. Commerell, K.C.B., V.C., 1874. Engraving from a photograph by Messrs. Elliott and Fry. 'Sir John Edmund Commerell, K.O.B., Captain R.N., was long since decorated with the V.C. for his acts of valour. He has lately been raised from the Companionship to the Knighthood of the Bath, in token of her Majesty's increased esteem for him since his services last year on the West Coast of Africa...our Commodore...had an amicable conference with the local chieftains, who professed neutrality and promised never to take part with our enemies, though they would not become our active allies. But a few hours after this peaceful assurance, when the boats were quietly going up the river close to the Chamah bank, they were suddenly fired into by a large number of concealed foes in the dense thicket a few yards distant on the left hand...The wounds received by the gallant Commodore were most severe; and, after rising in the boat and waving his hat, while cheering the sailors and calling on them to return the enemy's fire, he presently sank into the bottom of the boat exhausted by loss of blood. But he was still able to give directions...The town of Chamah was punished by the Rattlesnake with a severe bombardment...'. From "Illustrated London News", 1874.