Charles Melvin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Melvin
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Final resting place of Charles Melvin VC at Kirriemuir Cemetery, Angus, Scotland
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| Nickname(s) | Chay Melvin |
| Born | 2 May 1885 Craig, Angus, Scotland |
| Died | 17 July 1941 (aged 56) Kirriemuir, Angus |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 4 April 1907 – 15 April 1919 (12 years & 12 days) |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | 2nd Battalion, Black Watch (Royal Highlanders) |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
| Relations | Brother of Private James Melvin (Black Watch) and Private David Melvin (Scottish Horse). |
Charles Melvin (born May 2, 1885 – died July 17, 1941) was a brave Scottish soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for courage given to British and Commonwealth soldiers. It's given for amazing bravery when facing the enemy.
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Charles Melvin's Incredible Bravery
Private Charles Melvin earned the Victoria Cross for his amazing actions during a battle. His company, which is a group of soldiers, had moved very close to an enemy trench. This trench was part of a strong defensive position called a redoubt.
Facing Heavy Fire
The enemy was firing intensely, so Charles Melvin's fellow soldiers had to lie down. They needed to wait for more soldiers to arrive and help them. But Charles Melvin decided to act alone. He bravely ran forward by himself. The ground was being hit by lots of rifle and machine-gun fire.
Attacking the Trench Alone
When he reached the enemy trench, he stopped and fired a few shots. He managed to hit one or two enemy soldiers. But the other enemy soldiers in the trench kept firing at him. So, Charles Melvin jumped right into the trench.
Disarming the Enemy
His rifle was damaged, so he couldn't use it properly. Instead, he attacked the enemy soldiers with his bayonet, which is a knife attached to a rifle. Because of his brave and determined attack, most of the enemy soldiers ran away to their next line of defense. Before they fled, Charles Melvin managed to kill two more enemy soldiers. He also disarmed eight enemy soldiers who were not hurt and one who was wounded.
Helping the Wounded and Taking Prisoners
Charles Melvin then took care of the wounded enemy soldier, bandaging his injuries. After that, he gathered the eight unhurt prisoners and the wounded one. He marched them out of the trench and brought them to a British officer.
Returning to the Fight
After handing over the prisoners, Charles Melvin didn't stop. He found more ammunition for his rifle. Then, he went right back to the front line to rejoin his platoon. All of these brave actions happened while he was under heavy rifle and machine-gun fire. Even on his way back with the prisoners, he and his group were under a very heavy artillery attack.
Inspiring His Fellow Soldiers
Throughout that entire day, Charles Melvin's incredible bravery and calm actions inspired everyone around him. He showed great confidence and courage, which helped his fellow soldiers feel braver too.
Where to See His Medal
You can see Charles Melvin's Victoria Cross at the Black Watch Museum in Perth, Scotland. He is also remembered in his hometown of Kirriemuir. There is a special plaque on the Kirriemuir Town Hall. You can also find a carved flagstone in Cumberland Close and a street named Charles Melvin Gardens, both in Kirriemuir.
