Francis George Miles facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Francis George Miles
VC
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| Born | 9 July 1896 Clearwell, Gloucestershire |
| Died | 8 November 1961 (aged 65) Clearwell |
| Buried |
Cemetery, Clearwell
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | The Gloucestershire Regiment Pioneer Corps |
| Battles/wars | World War I World War II |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
Francis George Miles (9 July 1896 – 8 November 1961) was an English soldier. He is famous for receiving the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award for bravery given to British and Commonwealth forces. It is given for incredible courage when facing the enemy.
Miles was a Private in the British Army during the First World War. He was part of the 1/5th Battalion, The Gloucestershire Regiment. He earned his Victoria Cross when he was 22 years old.
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What is the Victoria Cross?
The Victoria Cross, or VC, is the top award for bravery. It is given to soldiers who show amazing courage. This courage must be "in the face of the enemy." It is the most respected military award in the United Kingdom.
A Daring Act of Courage in 1918
Francis George Miles showed incredible bravery on 23 October 1918. This happened near Bois-l'Évêque, in France. His company was stuck because of enemy machine guns. These guns were hidden in a sunken road.
Miles decided to act alone. He went forward under very heavy enemy fire. He found one machine gun and shot the gunner. This put the gun out of action.
Then, he saw another machine gun nearby. Again, he went forward by himself. He shot that gunner too. He also captured eight enemy soldiers from that gun team.
Finally, he stood up and signaled to his company. They understood his signals. Because of his actions, his company was able to capture many things. They took 16 machine guns, one enemy officer, and 50 other enemy soldiers.
Service in World War II
After the First World War, Francis George Miles joined the army again. He served in the Second World War. During this time, he was part of the Pioneer Corps.
Where to See His Medals
Francis George Miles's medals are very important. They are now part of the Lord Ashcroft VC collection. You can see them at the Imperial War Museum in London.
