Harold Whitfield facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Harold Edward Whitfield
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|---|---|
| Born | 10 June 1886 Oswestry, Shropshire, England |
| Died | 19 December 1956 (aged 70) |
| Buried |
Oswestry Cemetery, Oswestry, Shropshire, England
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1908–1934 |
| Rank | Squadron Sergeant Major |
| Service number | 230199 |
| Unit | King's Shropshire Light Infantry Shropshire Yeomanry |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Squadron Sergeant Major Harold Edward Whitfield VC (10 June 1886 − 19 December 1956) was a brave British Army soldier. He was from England. He received the Victoria Cross (VC). This is the highest award for courage in the face of the enemy. It can be given to British and Commonwealth forces.
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Harold Whitfield: A British War Hero
Harold Edward Whitfield was born in Oswestry, Shropshire, England. This was in June 1886. He grew up to become a farmer. Later, he joined the army.
Joining the British Army
In 1908, Harold Whitfield joined the Shropshire Yeomanry. This was a special part of the British Army. When World War I began in 1914, he was called to serve. He spent two years in England.
In 1916, he traveled to Egypt. His unit became part of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force. This group helped fight in the Middle East. His unit was renamed the 10th Battalion of the King's Shropshire Light Infantry.
His Military Rank
Harold Whitfield achieved a high rank in the army. He became a Squadron Sergeant Major. This is an important leadership role. It means he was a senior non-commissioned officer. He helped lead and train soldiers.
Life After the War
After his time in the army, Harold Whitfield returned to civilian life. He worked as a farmer. Later, he worked at Express Dairies in Whittington, Shropshire.
He passed away in 1956 at the age of 70. He died from injuries he received in a road accident. This happened three days earlier. He was cycling home from work in Oswestry.
Where to See His Medals
Harold Whitfield's special medals are kept safe today. You can see them at the Shropshire Regimental Museum. This museum is located in Shrewsbury Castle. His Victoria Cross is a very important part of British history.
