Alfred Cecil Herring facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alfred Cecil Herring
VC
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| Born | 26 October 1888 Tottenham, London |
| Died | 10 August 1966 (aged 77) Weybridge, Surrey |
| Buried |
Woking Crematorium
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Major |
| Unit | Royal Army Service Corps The Northamptonshire Regiment (attached) |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
Major Alfred Cecil Herring (26 October 1888 – 10 August 1966) was a very brave English soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery in the British military. This special medal is given to soldiers who show amazing courage when facing the enemy.
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Early Life and School
Alfred Cecil Herring grew up in Tottenham, North London. He went to Tottenham County School. While he was there, he was a great athlete. He was even the captain of both the cricket and football teams!
A Hero in World War I
Alfred Herring was 29 years old when he became a hero during World War I. He was an officer in the Royal Army Service Corps, which helped supply the army. He was also working with the 6th Battalion of The Northamptonshire Regiment.
The Battle at Montagne Bridge
On 23 and 24 March 1918, a big battle happened at Montagne Bridge in France. The enemy soldiers had taken over a spot on the south side of a canal. Alfred Herring's group was completely surrounded.
But Alfred didn't give up! He quickly led his soldiers in a counter-attack. They fought back and took their position again. They even captured 20 enemy soldiers and six machine-guns!
Holding the Line
Throughout the night, the enemy kept attacking Alfred's position. But every time, his soldiers pushed them back. Alfred Herring was a true leader. He kept visiting his men, cheering them on, and making sure they stayed strong.
Because of his amazing bravery and how well he led his troops, the enemy's advance was stopped for 11 hours. This was a very important time in the war, and Alfred's actions made a huge difference.
After the War
After the war, Alfred Herring became a major, which is a higher rank in the army. He also worked as a professional accountant.
In 2006, a new pub in Palmers Green, North London, was named "The Alfred Herring" in his honor. It's a way to remember his incredible bravery.
His Victoria Cross Medal
Alfred Herring's Victoria Cross medal is now on display. You can see it at the Royal Logistic Corps Museum in Winchester.
