Jack Williams (VC) facts for kids

John Henry Williams (born September 29, 1886 – died March 7, 1953) was a brave Welsh soldier. He worked in a coal mine before joining the army. He is famous for receiving the Victoria Cross (VC). This is the highest award for courage given to British and Commonwealth soldiers. Williams earned more medals than any other Welsh non-commissioned officer in history.

Early Life

John Henry Williams was born in a place called Nantyglo, in Monmouthshire, Wales. This was on September 29, 1886.

First World War Hero

In November 1914, Williams stopped working as a blacksmith at a coal mine. He joined the 10th Battalion of the South Wales Borderers regiment. He quickly became a sergeant in January 1915.

His amazing bravery during the war earned him the Victoria Cross. This happened on the night of October 7-8, 1918. His company was attacking a village called Villers-Outréaux. They were getting hurt badly by an enemy machine gun.

Williams saw what was happening. He told a machine gun team to fire at the enemy. Then, he bravely went forward by himself. He ran towards the enemy's machine gun post under heavy fire. He attacked it alone and captured fifteen enemy soldiers!

But the prisoners soon realized Williams was by himself. They turned on him, and one even grabbed his rifle. Williams managed to break free. He fought back and defeated five of the enemy soldiers. The rest of the prisoners then gave up again.

Because of his incredible courage and not caring about his own safety, Williams helped his company advance. He also helped the companies next to his to move forward.

Williams was badly wounded in his right arm and leg by shrapnel. He had to leave the army on October 17, 1918.

In 1919, King George V personally gave Williams his medals. These included the Victoria Cross, the Distinguished Conduct Medal, and the Military Medal with a Bar. It was the first time the King had given the same person four medals in one day. Williams was still recovering from his injuries. During the ceremony, his arm wound even opened up, and he needed medical help.

Remembering a Hero

John Henry Williams is buried at Ebbw Vale Cemetery. A new headstone was put up for him on October 21, 1990.

In September 2018, the people of Villers-Outréaux created a special memorial. They did this to thank him for saving their village during the war.

Bridge of Honour

A new bridge was named the 'Jack Williams Gateway Bridge' in his honor. It was opened on January 21, 2019. His great-great-granddaughter helped to unveil it. This bridge is 160 feet tall and weighs over 738 tons. It is part of a new road project in Wales. Most people who voted chose his name for the bridge.

War Medal Display

Williams' Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at the Regimental Museum of The Royal Welsh in Brecon.