Lawmaker urges Military Cross for Walter Tull

A Member of Parliament has requested that Walter Tull, a World War One soldier recognized as one of England’s initial black professional footballers, be granted the Military Cross. Mr. Tull, who played for Tottenham Hotspur and Northampton Town, passed away at the age of 29 in 1918 after being shot on the battlefields of northern France. He held the distinction of being Britain’s first black Army officer to lead white troops. Lucy Rigby, the Labour Member of Parliament representing Northampton North, issued an open letter addressed to Alistair Carns, the minister responsible for veterans and people. The letter advocated for Mr. Tull to be “rightly commemorated.” In her correspondence, she stated: “Walter Tull’s story is one that resonates deeply, with those in Northampton and far beyond.” “It is one of incredible success, talent and bravery, all in the face of the pervasive racial prejudices of the time.” The lawmaker further mentioned that the initiative to bestow this posthumous recognition was “long-running and well-supported.” David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, had previously advocated for Mr. Tull to receive the award in 2018. A statement from the Ministry of Defence declared: “Walter Tull served with great courage, setting an example to those under his command as a British Army officer during the First World War.” At the time of Walter Tull’s death on the World War One battlefields, the extent of his hardships during his 29 years was largely unknown. He became an orphan in east London following the death of his parents, and his brother was subsequently adopted by a couple residing in Glasgow. Mr. Tull competed for several football teams, notably Tottenham Hotspur. However, as one of the pioneering black players in English football, he frequently faced racist abuse from spectators. He later joined Northampton Town, where he participated in 111 matches prior to the commencement of World War One. Mr. Tull achieved the distinction of becoming the Army’s first black officer, advancing to the rank of second lieutenant, notwithstanding contemporary regulations that prohibited such appointments. He subsequently received a recommendation for a Military Cross in recognition of his gallantry. Nevertheless, he was killed during combat before the award could be presented to him.