John Manson Craig facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Manson Craig
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| Born | 5 March 1896 Comrie, Perthshire |
| Died | 19 February 1970 (aged 73) Crieff, Perthshire |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1915–1919 1940–1945 |
| Rank | Wing commander |
| Unit | The Royal Scots Fusiliers |
| Battles/wars | World War I World War II |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
John Manson Craig (born March 5, 1896 – died February 19, 1970) was a brave Scottish soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for courage a soldier can get in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. It's given for amazing bravery when facing the enemy.
A Hero in World War I
John Manson Craig was 21 years old during the First World War. He was a second lieutenant, a junior officer, in the British Army. He belonged to a group called the 1/4th Battalion of The Royal Scots Fusiliers.
Incredible Bravery at Umbella Hills
On June 5, 1917, something very dangerous happened. An enemy attack took over a small army post at Umbella Hills, near Gaza. Second Lieutenant Craig quickly gathered a team to help.
He followed the enemy back to their trenches. Even under heavy gunfire from rifles and machine guns, he led his team to rescue the dead and wounded soldiers.
During the rescue, one of his non-commissioned officers (NCO) was hurt. A doctor who came to help was also wounded. Without hesitation, Second Lieutenant Craig went out again. He brought the NCO to safety. While he was helping the wounded doctor, Craig himself was shot and injured.
Despite his own injury, he made sure the rescue was finished. He then dug out places for the wounded soldiers to hide, which saved their lives from the ongoing attack. This incredible act of courage earned him the Victoria Cross.
Service in World War II
After World War I, John Craig continued to serve his country. He joined the Royal Air Force (RAF) and served again during the Second World War. He reached the rank of Wing commander, which is a senior officer role in the RAF.
