Joseph John Davies facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joseph John Davies
VC
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![]() Memorial to Joseph Davies, Delville Wood.
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Born | 28 April 1889 Tipton, Staffordshire, England |
Died | 23 February 1976 Bournemouth, Dorset, England |
(aged 86)
Allegiance | ![]() |
Service/ |
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Rank | Staff-Sergeant |
Unit | Royal Welsh Fusiliers Herefordshire Regiment |
Battles/wars | First World War |
Awards | ![]() Order of St. George (Russia) |
Staff-Sergeant Joseph John Davies (28 April 1889 − 16 February 1976) was a brave British Army soldier. He received the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest award for courage in the face of the enemy. This special medal is given to soldiers from Britain and the Commonwealth.
A True War Hero
Joseph John Davies was born in Tipton, England, in 1889. He grew up to join the British Army. When the First World War began, he served as a corporal in the 10th Battalion of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers.
His Incredible Bravery
On 20 July 1916, during a big battle at Delville Wood in France, Corporal Davies showed amazing courage. He and eight other soldiers got separated from their main group. Suddenly, the enemy attacked them for a second time.
Joseph Davies and his small group were completely surrounded. But he didn't give up! He quickly led his men into a shell hole for safety. From there, he started throwing bombs and firing his weapon very fast. This brave action scared the attackers away. Corporal Davies even chased after them as they ran!
For his incredible bravery and leadership that day, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Life After the War
After the war, Joseph Davies continued his service. He reached the rank of staff-sergeant. Later, he joined the 1st Battalion of The Herefordshire Regiment, which was part of the Territorial Army. He served there until the mid-1920s.
Joseph Davies passed away on 16 February 1976. His Victoria Cross medal is now on display. You can see it at the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum inside Caernarfon Castle in Wales. It reminds everyone of his heroic actions.