Arthur Henderson (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Arthur Henderson
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|
|---|---|
| Born | 6 May 1893 Paisley, Renfrewshire |
| Died | 24 April 1917 (aged 23) Fontaine-les-Croisilles, France |
| Buried |
Cojeul British Cemetery, Saint-Martin-sur-Cojeul
|
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1914 – 1917 † |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | |
Arthur Henderson was a brave Scottish soldier. He was awarded the Victoria Cross (VC) and the Military Cross (MC). The Victoria Cross is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy. It is given to soldiers from Britain and Commonwealth countries. Arthur Henderson was born on May 6, 1893, and sadly passed away on April 24, 1917.
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Who Was Arthur Henderson?
Arthur Henderson was born in Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland. His father was George Henderson, a local leader. His mother was Elizabeth Purdie. Arthur grew up in Paisley before joining the army.
Serving in World War I
When World War I began, Arthur Henderson joined the British Army. He became a soldier in the 4th Battalion of The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (Princess Louise's). This was a famous Scottish regiment. He later served with the 2nd Battalion.
A Young Captain
By 1917, Arthur Henderson was 23 years old. He held the rank of Acting Captain. This meant he was temporarily leading a group of soldiers. He showed great courage during his time in the war.
His Heroic Actions
On April 23, 1917, Captain Henderson was fighting near Fontaine-les-Croisilles in France. This was during a very intense part of World War I. He performed an act of incredible bravery that day. His actions saved many lives and helped his fellow soldiers. Because of this, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
The Victoria Cross Award
The Victoria Cross is given for "most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy." Captain Henderson's actions fit this description perfectly. Sadly, he died the very next day, on April 24, 1917.
Remembering Arthur Henderson
Captain Arthur Henderson is buried in the Cojeul British Cemetery. This cemetery is in Saint-Martin-sur-Cojeul, France. It is looked after by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. This group makes sure that soldiers who died in wars are remembered.
Honoring His Memory
His name is also on a war memorial in Gordon, in the Scottish Borders. This memorial proudly shows that he won the Victoria Cross. You can also see his Victoria Cross medal. It is on display in the Lord Ashcroft Gallery at the Imperial War Museum in London. His bravery continues to inspire people today.
