Eric Archibald McNair facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Eric Archibald McNair
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| Born | 16 June 1894 Calcutta, British India |
| Died | 12 August 1918 (aged 24) Genoa, Italy |
| Buried |
Staglieno War Cemetery, Genoa
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | Royal Sussex Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Eric Archibald McNair was a very brave British soldier who lived from 1894 to 1918. He is famous for receiving the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award a soldier can get for showing amazing bravery when facing the enemy. It is given to members of the British and Commonwealth forces.
Who Was Eric McNair?
Eric Archibald McNair was born on June 16, 1894, in Calcutta, which was part of British India at the time. He grew up to become a hero in the First World War.
Early Life and School
Eric went to Charterhouse School in England from 1907 to 1913. He was a very good student and even became the Head of the School! After finishing school, he started studying at Magdalen College, Oxford University. However, he soon left his studies to join the army. He wanted to help his country during the First World War.
A Heroic Act in World War I
Eric McNair was 21 years old when he showed incredible bravery. He was a Temporary Lieutenant in the 9th Battalion of the Royal Sussex Regiment. This happened on February 14, 1916, near a place called Hooge, Belgium.
The enemy exploded a mine, which is like a big bomb buried in the ground. The explosion threw Lieutenant McNair and many other soldiers into the air. Many men were also buried under the earth and debris. Even though Eric was very shaken by the blast, he quickly took charge.
He immediately gathered a group of soldiers and a machine-gun. They set up at the edge of the big hole (called a crater) made by the mine. They started firing rapidly at the enemy soldiers who were trying to advance. Because of their quick action, the enemy was forced to retreat, and many were stopped.
Lieutenant McNair then needed more soldiers to help. The trench they used for communication was blocked. So, he bravely ran across an open area, even though there was heavy enemy fire. He led the reinforcements back the same way. His quick thinking and brave actions saved a very dangerous situation for his fellow soldiers. For this amazing act, he was given the Victoria Cross.
His Legacy
Eric McNair later became a Captain. Sadly, he passed away on August 12, 1918, at a hospital in Genoa, Italy, due to an illness. He was only 24 years old.
Today, his Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at the Eastbourne Redoubt Museum in Eastbourne, Sussex, England. It reminds everyone of his courage and sacrifice.
