A memorial service celebrating the achievements of a London born Jewish Soldier who was awarded the Victoria Cross was held at Victoria Embankment Gardens in Westminster yesterday.

Lance Corporal (later Lieutenant) Leonard Keysor of the 1st Battalion, Australian Imperial Force was honoured with a Victoria Cross commemorative paving stone next to the Ministry of Defence Main Building.

He received the award for noticeable bravery at Lone Pine, Gallipolli on 6 August 1915.

Mr Keysor had immigrated to Australia only three months before the First World War broke out and he immediately enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force. He arrived at Gallipoli on 20 June 1915 where he was promoted to Lance Corporal.

During the Battle of Lone Pine, Mr Keysor risked his life by picking up live Turkish grenades as they were thrown into the trenches and throwing them back.

Despite injury and an order to seek medical attention, Keysor continued to remain in the line, volunteering to throw bombs for another company.

Rabbi Major Reuben Livingstone, Principal Jewish Chaplain to HM Forces, said words of remembrance and prayers at the ceremony. The service was also attended by The Lord Mayor of Westminster, Councillor Christabel Flight, who unveiled the paving stone and past, present and future representatives from the Royal British Legion, HQ London District and Army Cadets.

The Victoria Cross is the highest and most prestigious honour bestowed on any serviceman who showed exceptional courage in the face of the enemy.