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James Youll Turnbull facts for kids

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James Youll Turnbull
VCJamesYoullTurnbull.jpg
James Youll Turnbull as depicted on a cigarette card
Born 24 December 1883
Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland
Died 1 July 1916(1916-07-01) (aged 32)
Leipzig Salient, Authuille, France
Buried
Lonsdale Cemetery, Authuille
Allegiance  United Kingdom
Service/branch Flag of the British Army.svg British Army
Rank Sergeant
Unit 3rd Lanarkshire Rifle Volunteers
17th Battalion, The Highland Light Infantry
Battles/wars First World War * Attack on Leipzig Salient  
Awards Victoria Cross
Other work Played rugby for Cartha Queens Park RFC

James Youll Turnbull was a brave Scottish soldier. He lived from 1883 to 1916. He received the Victoria Cross (VC). This is the highest award for bravery in the British military. It is given for amazing courage during a battle.

A Hero of World War I

James Youll Turnbull was a sergeant in the British Army. He served in the 17th Battalion of The Highland Light Infantry. This was during the First World War. He fought in a very big battle called the Battle of the Somme.

Early Life and Rugby

Before the war, James was a keen rugby player. He played for a team called Cartha Queens Park RFC. He also joined a local army group. It was called the 3rd Battalion of the Lanarkshire Rifle Volunteers. This was a group of people who trained to be soldiers.

Bravery in Battle

On July 1, 1916, James showed incredible bravery. This happened at a place called Leipzig Salient in France. His group captured an important enemy position. James defended it almost by himself. He fought bravely against many enemy soldiers. Later that same day, he was sadly killed. This happened while he was fighting in a counter-attack. He was 32 years old.

The Victoria Cross

For his amazing courage, James Youll Turnbull was awarded the Victoria Cross. This special medal is given for the bravest acts. It is the highest award for soldiers in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. His actions on that day saved many lives. He is remembered as a true hero.

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