Albert Hill (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Albert Hill
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Memorial to Joseph Davies, Delville Wood
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| Born | 24 May 1895 Hulme, Lancashire, England |
| Died | 17 February 1971 Pawtucket, Rhode Island, United States |
| Buried |
Highland Memorial Park, Johnston, Rhode Island
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1914–1919 |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | Royal Welsh Fusiliers |
| Battles/wars | First World War |
| Awards |  Victoria CrossCroix de Guerre (France) Cross of St. George (Russia) |
Albert Hill was a brave English soldier. He received the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award for bravery. It is given to soldiers in Britain and Commonwealth countries. He was born on May 24, 1895. He passed away on February 17, 1971.
Contents
Early Life of Albert Hill
Albert was born in Hulme, Manchester. He was one of ten children. As a child, he was not very strong. After school, he worked in a factory. Later, he became an apprentice at a hat company in Denton.
Bravery in the First World War
In August 1914, Albert joined the army. He became a private in the Royal Welsh Fusiliers. This was at the start of the First World War.
Victoria Cross Action
Albert Hill earned the Victoria Cross in 1916. This happened during the Battle of the Somme. His brave actions took place at Delville Wood in France.
On July 20, 1916, his group was under heavy fire. They were attacking the enemy. When the order to charge was given, Albert rushed forward. He faced two enemy soldiers and fought them.
Later, he was sent to find the enemy. He suddenly found himself surrounded. Over twenty German soldiers were around him. Albert quickly threw two hand grenades. This action killed or wounded about eighteen soldiers. The rest ran away.
He then joined another soldier from his company. Together, they fought their way back to their own lines. When he returned, he heard that his officer and a scout were wounded. They were still out in the open. Albert went back out to help. He helped bring in his wounded officer. Other soldiers helped with the scout.
Finally, Albert captured two enemy soldiers. He brought them back as prisoners. His bravery throughout this time was truly amazing.
Other Awards
Besides the Victoria Cross, Albert received other awards. He was given the Croix de Guerre from France. He also received the Cross of St. George from Russia. He earned three campaign medals too.
Life After the War
In February 1919, Albert returned to his old job. He worked at Wilson's factory again. A year later, he married Doris Wilson.
In 1923, Albert and Doris moved to the United States. He found work there as a builder. They had three daughters and one son. When the Second World War started, Albert tried to join the army again. However, he was advised to do defense work instead.
He passed away in Pawtucket, Rhode Island in 1971. He was buried with full military honors. His grave is in Highland Memorial Park, Johnston, Rhode Island.
Honoring Albert Hill
A place called Hill Court in Wrexham is named after him. This honors his bravery and service.
The Medal
Albert Hill's Victoria Cross medal is no longer with his family. It has disappeared over time. In 2017, it was thought to be worth about £380,000.
Images for kids
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Memorial to Joseph Davies, Delville Wood
