James Huffam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Palmer Huffam
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| Born | 31 March 1897 Dunblane, Scotland |
| Died | 16 February 1968 Burnt Oak, Middlesex |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Major |
| Unit | The Duke of Wellington's (West Riding) Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I World War II |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
James Palmer Huffam was a brave Scottish soldier who won the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award for courage in the face of the enemy. It is given to soldiers from Britain and Commonwealth countries. He was born on March 31, 1897, and passed away on February 16, 1968.
He showed incredible bravery during World War I and later served in World War II. He rose to the rank of Major in the British Army.
Early Life and Family
James Palmer Huffam was born in Dunblane, Scotland. He was the fourth son in his family. His father, Edward Valentine Huffam, was a former soldier. His mother was Dorothy Roughead Huffam.
James grew up with six siblings. He went to school at Spittal Council School. Later, he became a Freemason when he was 22 years old. In 1935, he married Constance Marion Huffam in Malta. They had two children together.
A Hero in World War I
During the First World War, James Palmer Huffam was a young officer. He was a Second Lieutenant in the 5th Battalion of the Duke of Wellington's Regiment. He was only 21 years old when he performed an amazing act of bravery.
On August 31, 1918, in France, he led three men to attack an enemy machine-gun post. They successfully took it out of action. Even when his own position was heavily attacked, he bravely pulled back. He even carried a wounded friend to safety.
Later that same night, he showed courage again. With only two other men, he attacked another enemy machine-gun. They captured eight enemy soldiers. This brave action helped his unit continue their advance. For these acts of heroism, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Life After the Wars
After World War I ended, James Palmer Huffam stayed in the army. For a while, he even worked with the Royal Air Force as a Flying Officer. He served in places like India and West Africa.
He retired from the army as a Major in 1938. However, when World War II began, he rejoined the service. He helped with the D-Day Landings in France. He retired for a second time in 1945. James Palmer Huffam passed away in 1968 in Middlesex, England.
The Victoria Cross
The Victoria Cross is the highest military award. It is given for extreme bravery. It is one of the most respected awards in the British armed forces. James Palmer Huffam's medal is privately owned today. It is not currently on public display.
