Herbert James facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Herbert James
VC, MC
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| Born | 31 October 1887 Ladywood, Birmingham |
| Died | 15 August 1958 (aged 69) Kensington, London |
| Buried |
West London Crematorium, Kensal Green Cemetery, London
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| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Years of service | 1909-1930 |
| Rank | Major |
| Unit |
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| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards |
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Major Herbert James (born October 31, 1887 – died August 15, 1958) was a very brave English soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest and most important award for courage. This special medal is given to soldiers from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries who show amazing bravery when facing the enemy.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Herbert James was born in Ladywood, a part of Birmingham, England. His family later moved to Bearwood, Smethwick. He went to Bearwood Road Infants School as a child.
After finishing school, Herbert James became a teacher. He taught at Bearwood Road School, the same school he attended. Later, he also taught at Brasshouse Lane School.
A Hero in World War I
When the First World War began, Herbert James joined the British Army. He was 26 years old and held the rank of second lieutenant in the 4th Battalion, The Worcestershire Regiment.
Bravery in Gallipoli
In 1915, during the war, Herbert James was fighting in a place called Gallipoli. On June 28, 1915, his regiment's advance was stopped by heavy enemy fire. Second-Lieutenant James, even though he was from a different unit nearby, quickly gathered a group of soldiers. He bravely led them forward through the intense gunfire.
He then went back to get more men. He organized a second group and led them into the attack again. His actions helped to restart the advance and gave new energy to his fellow soldiers.
A few days later, on July 3, he showed even more courage. He led a group of soldiers who were throwing bombs into a Turkish trench. All of his group were either killed or wounded. But Herbert James stayed there alone, under very dangerous enemy fire. He kept the enemy from advancing until his comrades could build a protective barrier behind him. This helped to secure the trench for his side.
For these incredibly brave actions, Herbert James was awarded the Victoria Cross.
After the War
After receiving his Victoria Cross, Herbert James returned home to England. He was given special celebrations in both Birmingham and Smethwick to honor his bravery.
He continued his military career and eventually reached the rank of major. His medals, including the Victoria Cross, are now on display. You can see them at the Maryborough Military and Colonial Museum in Maryborough, Queensland, Australia.
Remembering a Hero
Years later, in 2010, two special memorials were put up to remember Herbert James. On July 2, a memorial stone was placed at the East Chapel in Kensal Green Cemetery in London. This is where he was cremated.
Later that year, on November 12, a plaque was put up at Bearwood Road School. This plaque was given to the school by the Smethwick Heritage Centre. It helps everyone remember the brave teacher who became a war hero.
