George Thomas Dorrell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Thomas Dorrell
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| Born | 7 July 1880 Paddington, Middlesex, England |
| Died | 7 January 1971 (aged 90) Cobham, Surrey, England |
| Buried |
Randall's Park Crematorium, Leatherhead
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British ArmyTerritorial Army Home Guard |
| Years of service | 1895–1926, 1941–45 |
| Rank |  Lieutenant-Colonel |
| Unit | Royal Horse Artillery Royal Artillery Home Guard |
| Battles/wars | Second Boer War World War I World War II |
| Awards | Victoria Cross Member of the Order of the British Empire |
George Thomas Dorrell (born July 7, 1880 – died January 7, 1971) was a very brave English soldier. He received the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest award for bravery. This special medal is given to soldiers from Britain and Commonwealth countries for amazing courage in battle.
A Soldier's Life
George Dorrell joined the British Army when he was just 15 years old. He first served in the Second Boer War. This was a conflict in South Africa.
Later, he became a Battery Sergeant Major. This is a senior rank in the army. He was part of 'L' Battery in the Royal Horse Artillery. When World War I began, he was 34 years old. It was during this war that he showed incredible bravery.
Bravery at Néry
On September 1, 1914, a fierce battle took place in a town called Néry in France. George Dorrell's unit, 'L' Battery, was under heavy attack. During the fighting, all the officers in his battery were either killed or badly hurt. This included their commander, who kept directing the soldiers even after being severely wounded.
After the commander died, Battery Sergeant-Major Dorrell took charge. He worked with another brave soldier, a sergeant named David Nelson. Together, they kept one of their guns firing. They continued to fight the enemy until they ran out of ammunition. Their actions helped save many lives and showed amazing courage. For this incredible deed, George Dorrell was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Later Service and Legacy
George Dorrell continued to serve his country. During World War II, he was a lieutenant colonel. He commanded a company in the Home Guard. This was a defense organization in Britain.
Today, his Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at the Imperial War Museum in London. It reminds everyone of his bravery and dedication.
