Mount O'Rourke

This mountain was named in 1920 in honour of Private Michael Joseph O'Rourke V.C. Pte. O'Rourke was a stretcher bearer with the Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War. He was awarded the Victoria Cross in 1917 after working unceasingly for three days and nights while constantly under fire. During the period of 15-17 August 1917 at Hill 60 near Lens, France, Pte. O’Rourke of the British Columbia Regiment worked unceasingly for three days and nights bringing in the wounded, dressing their wounds and getting them food and water. During the whole of this period the area in which he worked was swept by heavy machine-gun and rifle fire and on several occasions he was knocked down and partially buried by enemy shells. His courage and devotion in carrying out his rescue work in spite of exhaustion and incessant heavy fire inspired all ranks and undoubtedly saved many lives.