One of the most famous war graves of all is in this cemetery - that of Captain Noel Chavasse, VC and Bar, MC - one of only three men to have won the Victoria Cross twice. His grave is easy to spot - just look for the crosses and poppies. During the First World War, Brandhoek was within the area comparatively safe from shell fire, which extended beyond Vlamertinghe Church. Field ambulances were posted there continuously. Until July 1917 burials had been made in the Military Cemetery, but the arrival of the 32nd, 3rd Australian and 44th Casualty Clearing Stations in preparation for the new Allied offensive launched that month made it necessary to open the New Military Cemetery, followed in August by the New Military Cemetery No 3.  The cemetery was designed by Sir Reginald Blomfield.