Christopher Bushell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Christopher Bushell
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| Born | 31 October 1887 Neston, Cheshire |
| Died | 8 August 1918 (aged 30) Morlancourt, France |
| Buried |
Querrieu British Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1912-1918 † |
| Rank | Lieutenant Colonel |
| Unit | The Queen's Royal West Surrey Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross Distinguished Service Order |
Christopher Bushell was a brave English soldier who fought in World War I. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for courage given to British and Commonwealth soldiers. He also earned the Distinguished Service Order.
Bushell was a Lieutenant Colonel, a high-ranking officer, in the British Army. He was 29 years old when he showed incredible bravery during the war.
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Who Was Christopher Bushell?
Christopher Bushell was born on October 31, 1887. He grew up in Neston, Cheshire, England. Before becoming a soldier, he studied history at Corpus Christi College, Oxford. He joined the British Army in 1912.
Serving in World War I
When World War I began, Christopher Bushell served as a temporary lieutenant colonel. He was part of the 7th Battalion of The Queen's Royal West Surrey Regiment. This was a very important time in history, and many young people like Christopher joined the fight.
A Heroic Act: The Victoria Cross
The Victoria Cross is given to soldiers who show amazing bravery when facing the enemy. Christopher Bushell earned this special award for his actions on March 23, 1918.
Leading the Counterattack
On that day, near St. Quentin's Canal in France, Lieutenant Colonel Bushell led his company of soldiers. They were working with other Allied troops to launch a counterattack. This means they were fighting back against the enemy who had attacked them.
During this fierce battle, Bushell was badly hurt in the head. But he did not stop. He kept going, walking in front of his soldiers. He encouraged everyone, even though there was heavy machine-gun and rifle fire all around them.
He refused to leave the battlefield. He only went to a medical station when he became too weak to stand. His courage helped his troops keep fighting.
His Final Sacrifice
Sadly, Christopher Bushell was killed in action a few months later. This happened on August 8, 1918, near Morlancourt, France. He was only 30 years old.
He was buried at the Querrieu British Cemetery in France. His bravery and leadership are still remembered.
Remembering His Legacy
In 1923, a special award was created in his honor. It is called the Christopher Bushell Prize. This prize gives books to students who study Modern History at Corpus Christi College, Oxford. This is the same college where Christopher Bushell once studied.
