Samuel Needham facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Samuel Needham
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| Born | 16 August 1885 Great Limber, Lincolnshire, England |
| Died | 4 November 1918 (aged 33) Kantara, Egypt |
| Buried |
Kantara War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1914–1918 |
| Rank | Private |
| Service number | 203329 |
| Unit | Army Service Corps Bedfordshire Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Private Samuel Needham was a brave soldier from England. He served in the British Army during World War I. Born on August 16, 1885, he sadly passed away on November 4, 1918. He received the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest award for bravery a soldier can get. This special medal is given for amazing courage when facing the enemy. It is awarded to soldiers from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries.
Samuel Needham's Bravery
Samuel Needham was 33 years old during the First World War. He was a private in the 1/5th Battalion of The Bedfordshire Regiment. He earned his Victoria Cross for an incredibly brave act that happened in September 1918.
A Heroic Moment
On September 10 and 11, 1918, in a place called Kefr Kasim in Palestine, Samuel Needham's patrol was attacked. A patrol is a small group of soldiers sent out to check on the enemy. The enemy attacked with many soldiers and very heavy gunfire.
At a very important moment, Private Needham showed incredible courage. He ran back towards the approaching enemy. He then turned to face about 40 Turkish soldiers who were only 30 yards away. He fired his weapon quickly at them.
Saving His Comrades
Private Needham's brave action stopped the enemy's attack. This gave his patrol commander just enough time to gather his men again. Half of the patrol had been injured, but because of Needham's actions, they were able to bring all their wounded soldiers back to safety.
Private Needham stood alone against the enemy. His bravery greatly inspired the other soldiers. His actions undoubtedly saved the whole situation and his comrades.
Later Life and Legacy
Samuel Needham passed away in Kantara, Egypt on November 4, 1918. This was just a few days before World War I ended.
His Victoria Cross medal is now displayed for everyone to see. You can find it at the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regimental Collection. This collection is located at the Wardown Park Museum in Luton, Bedfordshire, England.
