Frederick Jeremiah Edwards facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Frederick Jeremiah Edwards VC
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| Born | 3 October 1894 Queenstown, County Cork, Ireland |
| Died | 9 March 1964 (aged 69) Richmond, Surrey, England |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Corporal |
| Unit | 12th Battalion, The Middlesex Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I – Battle of the Somme |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Frederick Jeremiah Edwards (born October 3, 1894 – died March 9, 1964) was a brave Irish soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy for soldiers from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. It's a very special medal given for incredible courage.
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Early Life and Military Service
Frederick Edwards was born in Queenstown, which is now called Cobh, in County Cork, Ireland. When he was a boy, he went to the Royal Hibernian Military School in Dublin. This school helped prepare young people for a life in the army.
When the First World War began, Frederick joined the British Army. He was a Private in the 12th Battalion of The Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge's Own). He was 21 years old when he showed amazing bravery during the war.
A Heroic Act in France
On September 26, 1916, Private Edwards was fighting in France. This was during the Battle of Thiepval Ridge, which was part of the larger Battle of the Somme. His unit was trying to advance, but they were stopped by heavy machine-gun fire.
All the officers in his part of the line had been injured or killed. There was a lot of confusion, and some soldiers were thinking about retreating. Private Edwards saw what was happening. He knew he had to do something quickly.
Without waiting for orders, he bravely ran towards the enemy machine-gun. He used his bombs (small explosives) to destroy the gun. This incredibly brave act helped his unit move forward. It also cleared up a very dangerous situation for his fellow soldiers.
Recognition for Bravery
For his amazing courage and quick thinking, Frederick Edwards was awarded the Victoria Cross. This medal is given for the most outstanding acts of bravery in battle. He was later promoted to the rank of Corporal.
Later Life and Legacy
After the war, Corporal Edwards left the British Army. He passed away on March 9, 1964, at the Royal Star and Garter Home in Richmond. He is buried in Richmond Cemetery.
His Victoria Cross medal was later displayed at the National Army Museum in Chelsea, England. It serves as a reminder of his incredible bravery and sacrifice during the First World War.
