James Alexander Smith facts for kids

Quick facts for kids James Alexander Smith
Born	5 January 1881 Workington, Cumberland, England, UK
Died	21 May 1968 (aged 87) Middlesbrough, North Riding of Yorkshire, England, UK
Allegiance	United Kingdom
Service/branch	British Army
Rank	Private
Unit	Border Regiment
Battles/wars	World War I Western Front
Awards	Victoria Cross

James Alexander Smith (born James Alexander Glenn) was an English soldier. He lived from 1881 to 1968. He is famous for receiving the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award for bravery in the British and Commonwealth armed forces. It is given for amazing courage when facing the enemy.

A Hero in World War I

James Alexander Smith was a soldier during World War I. He was a Private in the Border Regiment of the British Army. A Private is a basic rank for a soldier. He was 33 years old when he showed incredible bravery.

Bravery at Rouges Bancs

On December 21, 1914, Private Smith was fighting in France. This was near a place called Rouges Bancs. He and another soldier, Abraham Acton, did something truly heroic.

Rescuing Wounded Soldiers

They saw a wounded soldier who had been lying near the enemy's trenches for 15 hours. It was very dangerous. But Smith and Acton bravely left their own trench. They went out to rescue the injured man.

Later that same day, they did it again. They went out under heavy enemy fire. They brought in another wounded soldier. They were under fire for a whole hour while helping these men. Their actions saved lives.

The Victoria Cross Award

For their amazing courage, both James Alexander Smith and Abraham Acton were given the Victoria Cross. This award shows that they acted with extreme bravery.

Where to See His Medal

James Alexander Smith's Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at the King's Own Royal Border Regiment and Border Regiment Museum. This museum is located in Carlisle Castle, Cumbria, England.

He passed away on May 21, 1968, in Middlesbrough. He was 87 years old.