Sir Charles Russell (1826–1883) was 28 years old and a Bt/Major in the 3rd Bn., Grenadier Guards, during the Crimean War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

His citation reads:

On 5 November 1854 at the Battle of Inkerman, Crimea, Brevet Major Russell offered to dislodge a party of Russians from the Sandbag Battery if anyone would follow him. A sergeant and two privates (Anthony Palmer) - one of whom was subsequently killed - were the first to volunteer.

All Saints Church, Swallowfield

The party met much resistance and several times seemed to be on the point of annihilation but their skill, especially with the bayonet, finally brought success. Major Russell himself fought with great valour and in single combat wrenched the rifle out of the grasp of a powerful Russian.

He later achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Sir Charles Russell, VC was born in Sothern Hill on 22 June 1826 and died on 13 April 1883 in Reading. He is buried in the vault of All Saint's Church, Swallowfield, Berkshire.

His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Grenadier Guards Regimental Headquarters, Wellington Barracks, London, England.