George William Chafer facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George William Chafer
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| Born | 16 April 1894 Bradford, Yorkshire |
| Died | 1 March 1966 (aged 71) Bramley, Rotherham |
| Buried |
Rotherham Crematorium
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | The East Yorkshire Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
George William Chafer (born April 16, 1894 – died March 1, 1966) was a brave English soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery a soldier can get in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. It's given for amazing courage when facing the enemy.
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Who Was George Chafer?
George William Chafer was a soldier, known as a Private, in the British Army. He served in the 1st Battalion of The East Yorkshire Regiment. He fought during World War I, also known as the First World War. He was 22 years old when he showed incredible courage.
A Moment of Incredible Bravery
On June 3 and 4, 1916, a fierce battle was happening near Méaulte, in France. There was a very heavy attack on the British trenches. Trenches were long, narrow ditches where soldiers lived and fought. Shells were exploding everywhere, and machine guns were firing constantly.
During this intense fighting, a soldier was carrying a very important message for his commanding officer. Suddenly, a shell exploded nearby. The soldier was half-buried by the blast and knocked unconscious.
Chafer's Quick Thinking
Private Chafer saw what had happened. He quickly understood how important the message was. Without waiting for orders, he took the message from the unconscious soldier's pocket.
Facing Danger
Even though Private Chafer was badly wounded himself, he knew he had to deliver the message. He was choking and temporarily blinded by gas, which was a dangerous weapon used in the war. Despite his injuries, he ran along the ruined top edge of the trench, called the parapet. He was still under heavy shell and machine-gun fire.
He managed to deliver the vital message just before he collapsed from his wounds. His brave actions helped his unit during a very dangerous time.
Where to See His Victoria Cross
George William Chafer's Victoria Cross medal is on display for everyone to see. You can find it at The Prince of Wales's Own Regiment of Yorkshire Museum. The museum is located at 3 Tower Street, York, England.
