James Miller (VC 1916) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Miller
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | 4 May 1890 Hoghton, Lancashire, England |
| Died | 31 July 1916 (aged 26) Bazentin-le-Petit, France |
| Buried |
Dartmoor Cemetery, France
|
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1914–1916 † |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | 7th Battalion, The King's Own (Royal Lancaster) Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
James Miller was a brave English soldier who lived from 1890 to 1916. He was awarded the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest and most important award for courage given to soldiers in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. This award is given for showing amazing bravery when facing the enemy.
James Miller was a private in the 7th Battalion of The King's Own (Royal Lancaster) Regiment during the First World War. He was 26 years old when he showed incredible bravery on July 30-31, 1916, in a place called Bazentin-le-Petit, France. This act of heroism earned him the Victoria Cross.
What Did James Miller Do?
During the Battle of the Somme, James Miller's army unit had just captured a position. Their job was to make it safe. Private Miller was given a very important message to deliver. He had to take it through heavy gunfire and bring back an answer, no matter what.
A Heroic Act
To deliver the message, James Miller had to run across an open area. As soon as he left the trench, he was shot in the back. The bullet went all the way through his body. Even with such a terrible injury, he showed amazing courage. He pressed his hand against the wound to stop the bleeding.
He kept going and delivered the message. Then, he bravely staggered back with the answer. He managed to get back to his officer before he collapsed and died. James Miller gave his life showing incredible dedication to his duty.
Where Can You See His Victoria Cross?
James Miller's Victoria Cross is on display at The King's Own Royal (Lancaster) Regiment Museum in Lancaster, England. There is also a memorial for him in Withnell churchyard. This is the town where he used to work in a paper mill before joining the army.
