Samuel Wallace facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Samuel Wallace
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|---|---|
| Born | 7 March 1892 Thornhill, Dumfries and Galloway |
| Died | 2 February 1968 (aged 75) Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway |
| Buried |
Moffat Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | Royal Field Artillery |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Samuel Thomas Dickson Wallace was a brave Scottish soldier. He lived from 1892 to 1968. 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 the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries.
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Samuel Wallace's Bravery
Samuel Wallace was 25 years old during the First World War. He was a lieutenant in the British Army. His unit was the 'C' Battery 63rd Brigade of the Royal Field Artillery. This group used large guns called artillery.
A Heroic Act in France
On November 30, 1917, a very important event happened. It took place in a place called Gonnelieu in France. Lieutenant Wallace's group was in a tough spot. Most of his team were gone, leaving only five soldiers. They had lost their leader and five sergeants. Even worse, enemy soldiers had surrounded them.
Keeping the Guns Firing
Despite being surrounded, Lieutenant Wallace did not give up. He made sure their big guns kept firing. He had his men move the guns very close together. The soldiers would run from one gun to another, loading and firing them. He kept this up for eight hours straight! His actions caused a lot of damage to the enemy.
A Smart Retreat
Finally, his men were very tired. When other friendly soldiers arrived to help, Lieutenant Wallace made a smart decision. He led his exhausted team to safety. He also made sure to take all the important parts of the guns with them. This stopped the enemy from using the guns. He also made sure all the wounded soldiers were taken care of.
Later Life and Legacy
After the war, Samuel Wallace continued his military career. He later became a Captain. He is buried in Moffat Cemetery in Scotland. You can find his grave on the right side of the main gate.
Where to See His Medal
Samuel Wallace's Victoria Cross medal is very special. You can see it on display at the Royal Artillery Museum. This museum is located in Woolwich, England.
