Thomas Alfred Jones facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Alfred Jones
VC DCM
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Statue of 'Todger' Jones in Runcorn Memorial Garden.
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| Nickname(s) | "Todger" |
| Born | 25 December 1880 Runcorn, Cheshire, England |
| Died | 30 January 1956 (aged 75) Runcorn, Cheshire, England |
| Buried |
Runcorn Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Private |
| Service number | 11000 |
| Unit | Cheshire Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards |
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Thomas Alfred Jones, also known as "Todger" Jones, was a very brave English soldier. He was given the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy for British and Commonwealth soldiers. He also received the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM). Thomas Jones was born on Christmas Day, 1880, and passed away in 1956. You can find a statue honoring him at the Runcorn War Memorial in England.
Contents
Who Was 'Todger' Jones?
Thomas Alfred Jones was born in a town called Runcorn, in Cheshire, England, on December 25, 1880. He was a soldier, holding the rank of Private, in the 1st Battalion of The Cheshire Regiment during World War I. People in his hometown knew him by his friendly nickname, 'Todger' Jones.
His Amazing Bravery in Battle
When he was 35 years old, on September 25, 1916, Thomas Jones showed incredible courage during a battle called the Battle of Morval. His company was moving forward in front of a village. He spotted an enemy sniper about 200 yards away.
Without waiting for help, he bravely left his trench and crossed the dangerous area known as "no man's land." This was a very risky move, as there was no cover from enemy fire. Even though one bullet went through his helmet and another through his coat, he kept going. He fired back at the sniper and managed to stop him.
Near the enemy trench, he saw two more German soldiers shooting at him. They were also waving a white flag, which usually means surrender. But Jones realized they were still fighting, so he stopped them both.
When he reached the enemy trench, he found many hidden dug-outs. All by himself, he managed to capture 102 German soldiers! A few of these were officers. Because of his amazing bravery, Jones and his fellow soldiers were able to take control of the entire trench. For this incredible act, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Where He Rests and His Medal Today
Thomas Jones is buried in Runcorn Cemetery. His Victoria Cross medal and other awards are on display at the Cheshire Military Museum in Chester.
Remembering a Hero: His Statue
On August 3, 2014, a special statue of Thomas Jones was revealed in the Memorial Garden in Runcorn. After a ceremony, four veterans and active soldiers unveiled the statue. It is made of bronze and was created by a Scottish artist named David Annand. The statue helps everyone remember his bravery and sacrifice.
What Medals Did He Earn?
Thomas Jones received several important medals for his service and bravery.
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| Ribbon | Description | What it means |
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Victoria Cross (VC) | The highest award for bravery. He received it on October 26, 1916. |
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Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) | An award for great bravery in battle. |
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1914–15 Star | Given to soldiers who served in the early part of World War I. |
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British War Medal | Awarded to soldiers who served in World War I. |
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1914–15 Star | Given to soldiers who fought in World War I, showing victory for the Allies. |
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Defence Medal | Awarded for defending the country during World War II. |
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King George VI Coronation Medal | Given to celebrate the crowning of King George VI in 1937. He received it because he was a Victoria Cross recipient. |
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Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Medal | Given to celebrate the crowning of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. He received it because he was a Victoria Cross recipient. |
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Territorial Force Efficiency Medal | An award for long and good service in the Territorial Force, a part-time army. He received it in 1912. |
