Thomas Kenny (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Kenny
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| Born | 4 April 1882 South Wingate, County Durham |
| Died | 29 November 1948 (aged 66) South Wingate |
| Buried |
Wheatley Hill Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1914–1918 17424 |
| Rank | Lance Sergeant |
| Service number | 17424 |
| Unit | Durham Light Infantry |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
| Other work | Coal miner |
Thomas Kenny (born April 4, 1882 – died November 29, 1948) was a very brave soldier from the United Kingdom. He served in the British Army during World War I. Thomas Kenny was awarded the Victoria Cross (VC). This is the highest award for bravery given to soldiers in the UK and Commonwealth countries. He earned this special medal for an amazing act of courage in France in 1915.
Who Was Thomas Kenny?
Thomas Kenny was born in South Wingate, County Durham, England. Before he joined the army, he worked as a coal miner. When World War I started in 1914, he joined the British Army. He became a private in the 13th Battalion of The Durham Light Infantry.
What is the Victoria Cross?
The Victoria Cross (VC) is the highest military award for bravery. It is given to members of the British Armed Forces and Commonwealth countries. It recognizes "most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy." Thomas Kenny received this incredible honor for his actions on November 4, 1915.
A Heroic Rescue in the Fog
On November 4, 1915, Thomas Kenny was near a place called La Houssoie in France. It was a very foggy day. An officer, Lieutenant Philip Brown, was leading a patrol when he was shot. He was badly wounded in both legs.
Even though enemy soldiers were shooting at him, Private Kenny showed incredible courage. He crawled around for more than an hour with the wounded officer on his back. He was trying to find his way through the thick fog back to the British trenches.
Lieutenant Brown told him several times to leave him and save himself. But Private Kenny refused to give up. He kept trying to get the officer to safety. Finally, he was completely exhausted. He carefully left the officer in a ditch that was somewhat safe. Then, he went to get help.
Thomas Kenny found a rescue party and guided them back through the fog. They were able to bring the wounded officer to safety. Sadly, Lieutenant Philip Brown later passed away from his injuries. Thomas Kenny's amazing bravery and determination saved his officer from being left behind.
