Harold John Colley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Harold John Colley
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| Born | 26 May 1895 Birmingham, Warwickshire, England |
| Died | 25 August 1918 (aged 23) Martinpuich, France |
| Buried |
Mailly Wood Cemetery, Mailly-Maillet, France
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Serjeant |
| Unit | Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry The Lancashire Fusiliers |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards |  Victoria CrossMilitary Medal |
Harold John Colley was an English soldier known for his incredible bravery. He received the Victoria Cross (VC) and the Military Medal (MM). The Victoria Cross is the highest award given for courage to British and Commonwealth soldiers. He earned it during World War I for his heroic actions.
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Early Life and Home
Harold John Colley was born in Birmingham, England, on May 26, 1895. His family later moved to Smethwick, a nearby town. This was his home when he joined the army for World War I.
A Soldier's Courage
Colley was 24 years old when he showed amazing bravery. He was an acting sergeant in the 10th Battalion of The Lancashire Fusiliers. This happened during World War I on August 25, 1918, in Martinpuich, France.
Holding the Line
His company was holding an advanced position. Two groups of soldiers were in front, and two were behind them. The front groups were told to hold their ground no matter what.
Sergeant Colley's Heroic Act
Sergeant Colley saw the danger and went forward without being told. He helped the two front groups of soldiers. He gathered the men and formed a strong defensive line. He held this line even though only three soldiers from the two front groups were left unwounded. Sergeant Colley himself was badly wounded during this fight. He sadly died the same day.
Preventing a Breakthrough
Because of Sergeant Colley's brave actions, the enemy could not break through their lines. His courage saved many lives and prevented a major defeat.
Remembering a Hero
Sergeant Colley's Victoria Cross is now on display at the Fusilier Museum in Bury, Lancashire. There is also a bronze plaque honoring him in Smethwick Council House. His name is also on memorials at Bearwood Baptist Church and St. Mary's Church in Bearwood.
On August 25, 2018, exactly 100 years after his death, a special paving stone was placed in Smethwick to remember him.
