LORD ASHCROFT’S “HERO OF THE MONTH”
LEADERSHIP
AGGRESSION • BOLDNESS INITIATIVE • SACRIFICE SKILL • ENDURANCE
The many Victoria Crosses and George Crosses in the Lord Ashcroft Gallery at the Imperial War Museum in London are displayed under one of seven different qualities of bravery. Commander Loftus William Jones’ award is part of the collection, and Lord Ashcroft feels that it falls within the category of leadership:
“Charismatic, strong, inspirational, the natural leader not only takes command, but also infuses all those around them with confidence and hope. They exude calm and resolve. They are a tower of strength.”
WILLIAM LOFTUS JONES was born in Southsea, Hampshire, on 13 November 1879 into a family with a strong naval tradition. He was the second son of Admiral Loftus Jones and his wife Gertrude (née Gray). With his father being such a senior Royal Navy officer, it was not surprising that “Willie”, as he was affectionately known in his family, followed him into the senior service.
After being educated at Eastman’s Royal Naval Academy in Fareham, Hampshire, he rose quickly through the officer ranks and, at just 23, was in command of his own ship, the destroyer HMS Sparrowh…
