Tragedy Lies Behind Death

10 June 1941 Dungog Chronicle: Durham and Gloucester Advertiser

Tragedy lies behind the death in hospital of Edward John Ryan, V.C., a hero of the last war, who had battled for years against adversity.

He died at the age of 54 years, in want.

Ryan received the V.C. for driving back the enemy in the Hindenburg Line with bombs and bayonet after all his companions had fallen.

People's memories are very short.

The debt due to the men of the 1914-18 war can never be paid.

It is the absolute limit for a V.C. winner to die in want.