Charles Spackman facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Charles Edward Spackman
Charles Spackman with the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII).
Born	11 January 1891 Fulham, London
Died	7 May 1969 (aged 78) Southampton, Hampshire
Buried	South Stoneham Crematorium, Southampton
Allegiance	United Kingdom
Service/branch	British Army
Rank	Sergeant
Unit	Border Regiment
Battles/wars	World War I
Awards	Victoria Cross Military Medal

Charles Edward Spackman was a very brave English soldier. He earned two special awards for his courage: the Victoria Cross (VC) and the Military Medal (MM). The Victoria Cross is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy that can be given to British and Commonwealth forces.

Charles Spackman was born on January 11, 1891, in Fulham, London. He passed away on May 7, 1969, at the age of 78.

A Hero in World War I

Charles Spackman was a sergeant in the 1st Battalion of the Border Regiment. This was part of the British Army. He served during the First World War, which was a very big global conflict. He was 26 years old when he showed incredible bravery.

The Brave Act at Marcoing

On November 20, 1917, Sergeant Spackman's unit was fighting near Marcoing, France. They faced heavy gunfire from an enemy gun. This gun was blocking their path forward. Sergeant Spackman realized his fellow soldiers could not advance.

He bravely ran through the dangerous gunfire. He went directly towards the enemy gun. He managed to defeat most of the enemy gun crew. After that, he captured the gun all by himself. This amazing act of courage earned him the Victoria Cross.

After the Wars

After the First World War ended, Charles Spackman was released from active duty. He later rejoined the Border Regiment as part of the Territorial Force. This was a part-time volunteer military force.

When the Second World War started, he volunteered for duty again. He joined the Kings Royal Rifle Corps as a sergeant major. He continued to serve his country with dedication.