His father, Thomas White (also Wright; 1838-1911), was thrice married and worked as a draper, grocer and outfitter.

Having been awarded a scholarship, he studied English literature at King's College, London, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in 1913.

[3] Having been assigned to the 6th (Service) Battalion, Alexandra, Princess of Wales's Own (Yorkshire Regiment), he was promoted to temporary lieutenant on 10 December 1914.

[4] White was 25 years old, and a temporary captain in what was later known as the Green Howards, when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC during the First World War: During the period 21 September to 1 October 1916 at Stuff Redoubt, France, Captain White was in command of the troops which held the southern and western faces of a redoubt.

To have two school friends both awarded the VC on the same battlefield is probably unique in British military history," said Richard Leake.