Ricketts, who was 17 years old and a private in the 1st Battalion, Royal Newfoundland Regiment during the First World War, was cited in the London Gazette for his actions on October 14, 1918.

Private Ricketts at once volunteered to go forward with his Section Commander and a Lewis gun to attempt to outflank the battery.

By his presence of mind in anticipating the enemy intention and his utter disregard for personal safety, Private Ricketts secured the further supplies of ammunition which directly resulted in these important captures and undoubtedly saved many lives"King George V presented Ricketts with his VC at York Cottage on the Sandringham Estate on January 19, 1919.

General Dighton Probyn, one of the oldest living VC holders at the time, was also present at the investiture.

Ricketts is buried at the Anglican Cemetery, Forest Road, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

[6] A photo of Ricketts is used on the cover of the 2001 Anchor Canada edition of Pierre Berton's "Vimy" paperback.