James Clarke (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Clarke
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| Born | 6 April 1894 Winsford, Cheshire |
| Died | 16 June 1947 (aged 53) Rochdale, Lancashire |
| Buried |
Rochdale Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1915-1919 |
| Rank | Regimental Sergeant Major |
| Service number | 37721 |
| Unit | Lancashire Fusiliers |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
Regimental Sergeant Major James Clarke was a very brave English soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest and most respected award for courage. This special medal is given to soldiers from Britain and Commonwealth countries for amazing bravery in battle.
He was born in Winsford, Cheshire, on April 6, 1894. James left school at age 14 and worked as a labourer. In October 1915, he joined the Lancashire Fusiliers to fight in World War I.
Contents
A Hero of World War I
James Clarke was 24 years old during the First World War. He was an acting company sergeant major in the 15th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers. His incredible actions led to him receiving the Victoria Cross.
Incredible Bravery in Battle
James Clarke showed amazing courage in November 1918. His actions were noted during an attack at Happegarbes.
Leading the Attack
On November 2, 1918, James Clarke led his platoon forward. They faced heavy machine-gun fire that stopped their advance. Without hesitation, he rushed ahead through a thick, enemy-held area. He captured four machine guns by himself. He bravely fought and defeated the enemy crews.
Capturing More Guns and Prisoners
Later, he led the rest of his platoon. They captured three more machine guns and many enemy soldiers. On the same day, his platoon was again stopped by machine guns. James Clarke successfully led a tank against them. He guided the tank over very open ground to attack the enemy.
Continuing the Fight
The attack continued on November 3. James Clarke captured many more prisoners. He reached his objective and skillfully organized his soldiers. This helped them hold off the enemy.
Actions at the Oise-Sambre Canal
On November 4, the battle moved to the Oise-Sambre Canal. They were under heavy fire from the canal bank. James Clarke rushed forward with a Lewis gun team. He faced intense enemy shelling. He brought the gun into action and silenced the enemy's fire. This allowed his company to move forward and achieve their goals.
Throughout these battles, James Clarke showed magnificent bravery. He completely ignored his own safety. His courage and strong sense of duty inspired everyone around him.
After the War
After World War I, James Clarke returned to civilian life. On June 8, 1946, he took part in the World War II Victory Parade. He died the following year, on June 16, 1947, from pneumonia. His Victoria Cross medal is now on display. You can see it in the Lord Ashcroft Gallery at the Imperial War Museum in London.
