Fred Greaves facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Fred Greaves
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| Born | 16 May 1890 Killamarsh, Derbyshire |
| Died | 11 June 1973 Brimington, Derbyshire |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit | The Sherwood Foresters |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
Fred Greaves was an English soldier. He won the Victoria Cross (VC). This is the highest award for bravery. It is given to British and Commonwealth soldiers. They receive it for amazing courage when facing the enemy.
Contents
Early Life and Joining the Army
Fred Greaves was born on 16 May 1890. His hometown was Killamarsh in Derbyshire, England. He joined the British Army and became a soldier.
Fighting in World War I
Fred Greaves fought in the First World War. He was part of the 9th Battalion. This was a unit of The Sherwood Foresters (The Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment). He was a corporal during the war.
The Battle of Broodseinde
In 1917, Fred Greaves was 27 years old. He was fighting in the Battle of Broodseinde. This battle took place near Ypres, Belgium.
An Act of Incredible Bravery
On 4 October 1917, Fred Greaves showed great courage. His group of soldiers was stopped. They were stuck because of heavy machine-gun fire. The fire came from a strong concrete building. Their leaders, the platoon commander and sergeant, were hurt.
Taking Charge
Corporal Greaves did not give up. He ran forward with another soldier. They reached the back of the enemy building. He used bombs (grenades) to attack the people inside. He either killed or captured the enemy soldiers. He also took their machine-gun.
Leading Under Fire
Later in the battle, things became very difficult. The enemy launched a strong counter-attack. All the officers in Fred's company were hurt. Corporal Greaves quickly gathered his men. He set up new positions to protect their side. He then used rifles and machine-guns to fire at the advancing enemy. This helped to stop their attack.
Later Life and Legacy
Fred Greaves was later promoted to the rank of Sergeant. He lived a long life. He passed away on 11 June 1973. He was 83 years old. He died in Brimington, near Chesterfield.
Where to See His Medal
His special Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at the Sherwood Foresters Museum. This museum is located at Nottingham Castle in England.
Remembering a Hero
On 2 August 2014, a special plaque was put up for Fred Greaves. It is in the Chesterfield FC Memorial Garden. This garden is at the Proact Stadium.
