George Nurse (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Nurse
VC
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | 14 April 1873 Enniskillen, County Fermanagh |
| Died | 25 November 1945 (aged 72) Liverpool, England |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Years of service | 1892–1918 |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | Royal Artillery |
| Battles/wars | |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
George Edward Nurse VC (born April 14, 1873 – died November 25, 1945) was a very brave soldier. He was born in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, which is in Ireland. He went to school in Guernsey, one of the Channel Islands. Both of his parents were born there. George Nurse was an Irish person who received the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award a soldier can get for showing great bravery when facing the enemy. It is given to members of the British and Commonwealth forces.
A Heroic Act
When George Nurse was 26 years old, he was a corporal in the 66th Battery of the Royal Field Artillery. This was part of the British Army. He was fighting in the Second Boer War. During the Battle of Colenso on December 15, 1899, something amazing happened.
The soldiers who were operating the big guns were either killed, hurt, or forced to leave their positions. This happened because of heavy enemy fire from nearby soldiers. The guns were left all alone. About 500 yards behind the guns, there was a small ditch where some horses and drivers were hiding. The area between the ditch and the guns was being hit by lots of shells and rifle fire.
Captain Congreve, another brave soldier, helped to get a team of horses ready. He went out to help move one of the guns. He got hurt, so he had to take cover. But then he saw Lieutenant Roberts fall, badly wounded. Captain Congreve went out again and brought Lieutenant Roberts to safety. Captain Congreve was shot in the leg, his boot, and was grazed on his elbow and shoulder. His horse was also shot three times. Lieutenant Roberts, who Captain Congreve rescued, was also wounded in three places. Corporal Nurse, our hero George Edward Nurse, also helped in this incredibly brave effort. For his actions that day, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Later Life and Legacy
George Nurse continued his military career. He reached the rank of lieutenant with the Royal Artillery during World War I. He passed away in Liverpool, England, on November 25, 1945.
The Medal
The actual Victoria Cross medal that George Edward Nurse received is on display. You can see it at the Royal Artillery Museum in Woolwich, London. It is a reminder of his incredible bravery.
See also
- List of Channel Islands Victoria Cross recipients
