John Dimmer facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Henry Stephen Dimmer
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| Born | 9 October 1883 Lambeth, Surrey, England |
| Died | 21 March 1918 (aged 34) Marteville, France |
| Buried |
Vadencourt British Cemetery, Maissemy
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1902 – 1918 |
| Rank | Lieutenant Colonel |
| Unit | King's Royal Rifle Corps |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross Military Cross Mentioned in despatches |
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John Henry Stephen Dimmer was a very brave English soldier. He lived from 1883 to 1918. He earned the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy. This special medal is given to soldiers from Britain and Commonwealth countries. He also received the Military Cross for his courage.
Contents
Early Life and Army Career
John Dimmer was born on October 9, 1883, in Lambeth, England. His family later moved to Wimbledon. There, he went to Rutlish School.
In July 1902, John joined the King's Royal Rifle Corps (KRRC). He quickly showed he was a good soldier. He was promoted to Corporal and then to Lance Sergeant. In 1906, he passed a test to become an officer. He became a Second Lieutenant in the KRRC.
However, he did not have enough money to serve with his regiment. So, in 1908, he worked with the West Africa Regiment instead. He served there as a local Lieutenant.
World War I Service
When World War I began, John Dimmer was on leave at home. He quickly went to France with the 2nd KRRC in August 1914. He fought bravely in the early parts of the war.
Bravery at Klein Zillebeke
On November 12, 1914, John Dimmer showed incredible bravery. This happened near Klein Zillebeke, in Belgium. He was a Second Lieutenant at the time.
His company was under heavy attack. Many officers were hurt or killed. John Dimmer took charge. He kept fighting even though he was badly wounded. He stayed with his men all day and night. He helped defend their position. He also helped evacuate the wounded. He did not leave until all his men were safe. For this amazing courage, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Later War Service
After recovering from his injuries, John Dimmer continued to serve. In January 1915, he became a brigade major. This meant he helped lead a group of soldiers. In April 1915, he was promoted to Captain.
He also served in Salonika, Greece. From May to November 1916, he worked with the Machine Gun Corps. In January 1918, he was promoted again. He became a temporary Lieutenant Colonel.
Final Battle and Burial
Lieutenant Colonel Dimmer was killed in action on March 21, 1918. This happened in Marteville, France. He was leading the 2nd/4th battalion of the Royal Berkshire Regiment. He was only 34 years old.
His body was missing for some time. In 1920, it was found and buried. He rests at Vadencourt British Cemetery in Maissemy.
Marriage
Two months before he died, John Dimmer got married. On January 19, 1918, he married Gladys Dora May Parker. They were married in Moseley Parish Church. They did not have any children.
Awards and Legacy
John Dimmer received several important awards for his service:
Victoria Cross
Military Cross- He was also Mentioned in despatches, which means his brave actions were officially recognized.
You can see John Dimmer's Victoria Cross and other medals today. They are on display at the Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum. This museum is in Winchester, England.
