Harry Christian facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Harry Christian
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| Born | 17 January 1892 Pennington, Lancashire |
| Died | 2 September 1974 West Cumberland Hospital, Whitehaven |
| Buried |
Egremont Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1910 - 1919 |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | King's Own Royal Regiment (Lancaster) |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
Harry Christian was an English soldier who showed amazing bravery during World War I. He was awarded the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest and most important award for courage in the face of the enemy. This special medal is given to members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces.
Contents
Harry Christian: A True Hero
Harry Christian was born on January 17, 1892. He joined the British Army and served as a Private. This is a common rank for soldiers. He was part of the 2nd Battalion, King's Own Royal Regiment (Lancaster).
An Act of Incredible Bravery
During the First World War, when Harry Christian was 23 years old, he performed an act of great courage. This happened in Cuinchy, France. His actions earned him the Victoria Cross.
The Story of His Courage
The official report about his bravery was published on March 3, 1916. It said:
“For most conspicuous bravery. He was holding a crater with five or six men in front of our trenches. The enemy commenced a very heavy bombardment of the position with; heavy "minenwerfer" bombs, forcing a temporary withdrawal.
When he found that three men were missing, Private Christian at once returned alone to the crater, and, although bombs were continually bursting actually on the edge of the crater, he found, dug out, and carried one by one into safety all three men, thereby undoubtedly saving their lives.
Later he placed himself where he could see the bombs coming, and directed his comrades when and where to seek cover.”
This means that Harry Christian and a few other soldiers were holding a "crater," which is a big hole in the ground. The enemy started dropping very big bombs called "minenwerfer" bombs. These bombs forced the soldiers to move back for a short time.
When Harry Christian realized that three of his friends were missing, he went back into the dangerous crater all by himself. Even though bombs were still exploding very close, he found the three missing men. He dug them out and carried each one to safety, one by one. There is no doubt that he saved their lives.
After that, he bravely stood where he could see the bombs coming. He then told his fellow soldiers when and where to hide to stay safe. This shows his incredible courage and his care for his comrades.
Where to See His Medal
Harry Christian passed away on September 2, 1974. His amazing Victoria Cross medal is now on display. You can see it at The King's Own Royal (Lancaster) Regiment Museum in Lancaster, England.
