ABSTRACT
He joined the RN in 1848 and became a Mate (Sub-Lieutenant in today’s ranks) in 1853. He served in the Vanguard, 78, in the Burma War, 1852-53, and in 1854 was in HMS Hecla, 6, a steam paddle sloop. During the bombardment of Bomarsund, a live shell landed on Hecla’s upper deck, with the fuse still burning. Without hesitation Lucas picked it up and threw it overboard, where it exploded before hitting the water, with minimal damage to the ship, and only two men wounded. He was given immediate promotion to Lieutenant, and received his VC from Queen Victoria at the first investiture in 1857.
