Spencer Bent facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Spencer John Bent
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| Born | 18 March 1891 Stowmarket, Suffolk |
| Died | 3 May 1977 (aged 86) Hackney, London |
| Buried |
West Norwood Crematorium
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1905 – 1925 |
| Rank | Regimental Sergeant-Major |
| Unit | The East Lancashire Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross Military Medal |
| Other work | School caretaker |
Spencer John Bent, also known as "Joe," was a brave English soldier. He was born on March 18, 1891, and passed away on May 3, 1977. Spencer Bent received the Victoria Cross (VC) and the Military Medal (MM). The Victoria Cross is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy. It is given to soldiers from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries.
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Who Was Spencer John Bent?
Spencer John Bent was a drummer in the British Army. He served in the 1st Battalion of The East Lancashire Regiment. He was 23 years old when World War I began. During the war, he showed incredible courage.
A Heroic Act in World War I
On the night of November 1-2, 1914, near Le Gheer in Belgium, something amazing happened. Spencer Bent's officer and platoon sergeant were injured. Many other soldiers were also hurt. Even though he was just a drummer, Bent took charge of his group.
He stayed calm and thought clearly. He managed to keep his position safe from the enemy. This was a very dangerous situation.
Bent had already shown his bravery before this. On October 22 and 24, he brought ammunition to his fellow soldiers. He did this while under heavy enemy fire. Then, on November 3, he helped wounded men. They were lying out in the open, exposed to enemy attacks. Bent moved them to safety.
Life After the War
Spencer Bent survived the war. He continued to serve in the army. He eventually reached the rank of Company Sergeant-Major. He passed away on May 3, 1977. He was cremated at West Norwood Cemetery in London.
Spencer Bent's Awards
Spencer Bent received several important awards for his bravery. These included the Victoria Cross and the Military Medal. He also received the Russian Cross of St. George.
His Victoria Cross, Military Medal, and Cross of St. George were sold at an auction in June 2000. They were bought for £80,000. Today, his Victoria Cross is on display. You can see it in the Lord Ashcroft Gallery at the Imperial War Museum in London.
