Francis Crake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Francis Crake
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | 19 April 1893 Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland |
| Died | 28 November 1920 (aged 27) Near Kilmichael, County Cork |
| Buried |
Elswick, Newcastle upon Tyne
|
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
|
| Years of service | 1909–1920 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit |
|
| Battles/wars | |
| Awards | Military Cross |
| Spouse(s) |
Guinevere Sykes
(m. 1914) |
Francis William Crake (born April 19, 1893 – died November 28, 1920) was a brave officer who served in the British Army and later with the Royal Irish Constabulary. He was known for his courage and received a special award called the Military Cross.
Contents
The Life of Captain Francis Crake
Early Life and First Steps in the Army
Francis Crake was born in Newcastle upon Tyne on April 19, 1893. Before joining the army, he worked as a clerk for an insurance agent. In 1909, when he was about 16 years old, he joined the Royal Army Medical Corps. He served with a unit called the 1st Northumbrian Field Ambulance until 1913.
Fighting in World War I
When World War I began, Francis Crake joined the 11th Reserve Regiment of Cavalry in September 1914. After serving with the cavalry, he joined the Hampshire Regiment in June 1915. He then fought on the Western Front, which was a major battle area in France and Belgium, from July 1915 to June 1917.
Later, he was chosen to become an officer. He joined the Bedfordshire Regiment as an officer on November 27, 1917. In April 1918, he returned to the front lines. He joined the 6th Battalion of the Bedfordshire Regiment. This unit later became part of the 1st Battalion, the Hertfordshire Regiment. Francis Crake ended the war as a Captain.
A Special Award: The Military Cross
Captain Crake received the Military Cross for his bravery in September 1918. This was during a major attack by the Allied forces called the Hundred Days Offensive. The award recognized his outstanding courage and dedication.
His award statement said:
"For outstanding bravery and dedication during an attack. When other officers were hurt and the company had many losses, he bravely brought together scattered groups of soldiers. He continued to lead them forward to their goal with great determination. His courage and example greatly helped in capturing an enemy gun position."
Final Days in Ireland
In August 1920, Captain Crake was put in charge of a unit of the Royal Irish Constabulary Auxiliary Division. This unit was based in Macroom in County Cork, Ireland. On November 28, 1920, he was leading a patrol in vehicles. During this patrol, he was killed in an event known as the Kilmichael Ambush.
