Ivor Rees facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ivor Rees
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| Born | 18 October 1893 Felinfoel, Carmarthenshire, Wales |
| Died | 11 March 1967 (aged 73) Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, Wales |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Company Sergeant-Major |
| Unit | South Wales Borderers Home Guard |
| Battles/wars | First World War Second World War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Ivor Rees was a brave Welsh soldier. He received the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award for bravery. It is given to soldiers in the British and Commonwealth forces. He was born on October 18, 1893. He passed away on March 11, 1967.
A Brave Welsh Soldier
Ivor Rees was born in Felinfoel, Wales. When he was older, he joined the army. He became part of the 11th Battalion, South Wales Borderers. This was a special group of soldiers. They were part of the 38th (Welsh) Division.
His Amazing Bravery in Battle
Ivor Rees fought in the First World War. This was a very big war. He survived a tough battle at Mametz Wood. Later, his group moved to Ypres in Belgium. There, his battalion had a difficult job. They needed to capture Pilckem Ridge. This was a strong German defense line. It was part of the Battle of Passchendaele.
On July 31, 1917, something amazing happened. An enemy machine gun started firing. It caused many injuries to his fellow soldiers. Sergeant Rees was leading his group. He bravely found a way around the side. He moved quickly and carefully. He got behind the enemy gun.
When he was only 20 yards away, Sergeant Rees rushed forward. He shot one of the enemy soldiers. He used his bayonet on another. Then, he threw a bomb into a large concrete hiding spot. This action killed five enemy soldiers. He also captured 30 prisoners. This included two officers. He even captured the machine gun, and it was still working!
Life After the War
Ivor Rees continued to serve his country. During the Second World War, he was a Company Sergeant-Major. He served in the Home Guard. This was a defense force in Britain. He passed away on March 12, 1967. He was in Llanelli, Wales.
Remembering a Hero
Ivor Rees is remembered in many places. There are memorials for him. You can find them in Havard Chapel at Brecon Cathedral. There is also one at Llanelli Town Hall in Carmarthenshire.
His special Victoria Cross medal is kept safe. It is owned by the Regimental Museum of The Royal Welsh. This museum is in Brecon, Wales. It helps people remember his incredible bravery.
