Thomas Steele (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Steele
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| Born | 6 February 1891 Springhead, Yorkshire, England |
| Died | 11 July 1978 (aged 87) Springhead, Greater Manchester, England |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit | The Seaforth Highlanders |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
| Other work | Rugby league player |
Thomas Steele was a very brave English soldier who lived from 1891 to 1978. He is famous for receiving the Victoria Cross (VC). This is the highest and most important award for courage given to soldiers in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries.
He earned this special medal during World War I while serving with the Seaforth Highlanders. His amazing actions happened on February 22, 1917, during a part of the war called the Mesopotamian campaign.
A Brave Act: Winning the Victoria Cross
Thomas Steele was 26 years old during World War I. He was a sergeant in the 1st Battalion of the Seaforth Highlanders. This is a part of the British Army. He earned his Victoria Cross for something incredible he did.
On February 22, 1917, near Sanna-y-Yat in Mesopotamia, a strong enemy attack happened. The enemy temporarily took back some of the trenches that had been captured. Sergeant Steele quickly helped a friend carry a machine-gun into place. He kept firing this gun until other soldiers took over. His actions were key to keeping the rest of the battle line safe.
Some hours later, another enemy attack allowed them to take back more trenches. Sergeant Steele bravely gathered the troops. He encouraged them to stay in their trenches. He then led some of them forward. This helped to get their battle line back. During this brave act, he was badly wounded.
Life After War: Rugby Player
After his time in the war, Thomas Steele became a professional rugby league player. He played three matches for a team called Broughton Rangers. This was one of the first rugby league clubs ever. He also had a great career as an amateur player for his local club, Healey Street.
