James Jackman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Joseph Bernard Jackman
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| Born | 19 March 1916 Glenageary, Ireland |
| Died | 26 November 1941 (aged 25) El Duda, Tobruk, Libya |
| Buried |
Tobruk War Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Captain |
| Service number | 69102 |
| Unit | Royal Northumberland Fusiliers |
| Battles/wars | Second World War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Captain James Joseph Bernard Jackman VC (born March 19, 1916 – died November 26, 1941) was a very brave soldier from Ireland. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for courage in battle. This special medal is given to soldiers from the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries.
Who Was Captain Jackman?
James Jackman was a Captain in the British Army. He was part of the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers, a famous army unit. He fought during the Second World War, especially in the North African campaign. This was a big fight in the deserts of North Africa.
A Heroic Act in Battle
Captain Jackman showed amazing bravery on November 25, 1941. This happened during a battle called Operation Crusader near Tobruk in Libya. He was leading a company of soldiers who used machine guns. Their job was to support tanks attacking a place called Ed Duda ridge.
The tanks faced very heavy fire from many enemy guns. It was so intense that it was hard for the soldiers to hold their ground. Captain Jackman quickly saw that enemy anti-tank guns were firing at the sides of their tanks.
He stayed calm and quickly moved his machine guns into position. He even stood up in his truck to lead his men across a very dangerous area. He drove between the tanks and the enemy guns to get his soldiers into the best firing spots.
His incredible courage inspired everyone around him. The tank crews saw his bravery and became even more determined to hold their position. Captain Jackman kept directing his guns and pointing out targets. He seemed to be protected from harm for a while. Sadly, he was killed later that day while still inspiring his men.
The Victoria Cross Medal
Captain Jackman was given the Victoria Cross for his actions. This medal is a very important symbol of bravery. His medal is now kept at Stonyhurst College, which was his old school. It is on loan from his family so that others can see it and remember his courage.
