Harry Ranken facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Harry Ranken
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| Born | 3 September 1883 Glasgow, Scotland |
| Died | 25 September 1914 (aged 31) Braine, France |
| Buried |
Braine Communal Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1909 - 1914 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | Royal Army Medical Corps |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Harry Sherwood Ranken was a very brave Scottish soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, often called the VC. This is the highest award for courage in the British military. It is given to soldiers who show amazing bravery when facing the enemy. Harry Ranken was born on September 3, 1883, and sadly died on September 25, 1914.
Harry Ranken's Amazing Bravery
Harry Ranken finished his studies at the University of Glasgow in 1905. He then joined the British Army in 1909. He became a Captain in the Royal Army Medical Corps. This part of the army helps injured soldiers.
During World War I, in September 1914, Captain Ranken showed incredible courage. He was 31 years old. He was helping wounded soldiers on the battlefield in France. There was a lot of enemy fire, including shrapnel and bullets.
Captain Ranken was badly wounded in his leg. But he quickly stopped the bleeding himself. Then he bandaged his own wound. After that, he kept helping his injured men. He put their needs before his own. He knew he was risking his own life.
When he finally let himself be carried away from the battlefield, his condition was very serious. He sadly died on September 25, 1914. He is buried in Braine Communal Cemetery in France.
His Lasting Legacy
Harry Ranken worked at a hospital in London before the war. Years later, a new military hospital was built. Its administration building was named "Ranken House" in his honor. This shows how much he was respected.
Even today, his photograph and a copy of his bravery award are displayed there. This helps people remember his incredible courage and sacrifice.
The Victoria Cross Medal
Harry Ranken's Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at the Army Medical Services Museum. This museum is located in Aldershot, England.
