Charles Ernest Garforth facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Ernest Garforth
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| Born | 23 October 1891 Willesden Green, London, England |
| Died | 1 July 1973 (aged 81) Beeston, Nottinghamshire, England |
| Buried |
Wilford Hill Cemetery Crematorium, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, England
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Service number | 7368 |
| Unit | 15th (The King's) Hussars |
| Battles/wars | First World War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Charles Ernest Garforth (born October 23, 1891 – died July 1, 1973) was a brave soldier in the British Army. He was from England and received the Victoria Cross (VC). This is the highest and most important award for bravery given to soldiers from Britain and Commonwealth countries. It's given for amazing courage when facing the enemy.
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Who Was Charles Garforth?
Charles Garforth was a corporal in the 15th (The King's) Hussars regiment. He was 22 years old when the First World War began. During this war, he showed incredible bravery, which led to him receiving the Victoria Cross.
His Amazing Acts of Bravery
Charles Garforth performed several heroic actions during the war.
Cutting Wire Under Fire
On August 23, 1914, in Harmingnies, Belgium, Corporal Garforth volunteered for a very dangerous task. He offered to cut some wire while under enemy fire. This brave act allowed his squadron (a group of soldiers) to escape from a difficult situation.
Rescuing Comrades
A few days later, on September 2, in Dammartin, France, he showed courage again. While under constant enemy fire, he rescued a sergeant who was trapped under his dead horse. Garforth managed to pull the sergeant to safety.
The very next day, another sergeant lost his horse in a similar way. Corporal Garforth bravely drew the enemy's attention to himself. This distraction allowed the second sergeant to get away safely.
After the War
In October 1914, Charles Garforth was taken prisoner by the enemy. He remained a prisoner until November 1918, when he was sent back home. After the war, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant.
His Victoria Cross and other medals are now on display. You can see them at the Imperial War Museum in London.
Remembering a Hero
When Charles Garforth passed away, he was cremated. For many years, there was no special monument or headstone for him. However, on August 30, 2008, this was changed. A headstone was placed at Wilford Hill Cemetery in Nottingham. This is where his ashes had been scattered. It serves as a lasting tribute to his bravery.
