Oliver Brooks facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Oliver Brooks
VC
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| Born | 31 May 1889 Paulton, Somerset, England |
| Died | 25 October 1940 (aged 51) Windsor, Berkshire, England |
| Buried |
Windsor Borough Cemetery, Windsor, Berkshire, England
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1906–1913 1914–1919 |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Service number | 6738 |
| Unit | Coldstream Guards |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
Oliver Brooks was a brave soldier from the British Army. He was born in Paulton, Somerset, England, on May 31, 1889. He is famous for receiving the Victoria Cross (VC). This is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy. It is given to soldiers from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries.
Oliver Brooks was a lance-sergeant in the 3rd Battalion of the Coldstream Guards. He showed amazing courage during World War I. He later became a Sergeant.
Contents
A Daring Act of Bravery
Oliver Brooks was 26 years old during the First World War. On October 8, 1915, a very important event happened. It took place near Loos, France.
Taking Back the Trenches
The enemy had captured about 200 yards of Allied trenches. This was a big problem for the soldiers. Lance-Sergeant Brooks decided to act. He led a group of soldiers called "bombers." Their job was to throw bombs at the enemy.
Facing Danger with Courage
Oliver Brooks led his team directly against the enemy. They were in the middle of a "hail of bombs" from the enemy. This means many bombs were flying around them. Despite the danger, he kept going. His bravery and quick thinking helped his team. They managed to take back all the lost ground. This was a huge success for the Allied forces.
Receiving the Victoria Cross
Oliver Brooks's amazing bravery earned him the Victoria Cross. This medal is very special. It is given for the most outstanding acts of courage.
A Royal Presentation
The King, George V, was in France at that time. He had been seriously injured. On October 28, 1915, he was thrown from his horse. He broke his pelvis and was badly bruised. The King was on a hospital train going home.
Despite his injuries, King George V insisted on giving the medal himself. Oliver Brooks went to the King's bedside on the train. With help from an assistant, the King personally attached the medal to Brooks's uniform. This showed how much the King respected Oliver Brooks's bravery.
Where to See His Medal
Today, you can see Oliver Brooks's Victoria Cross. It is displayed at The Guards Regimental Headquarters. This is located at Wellington Barracks in London.
