Tom Adlam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Tom Edwin Adlam
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| Born | 21 October 1893 Salisbury, Wiltshire, England |
| Died | 28 May 1975 (aged 81) Hayling Island, Hampshire, England |
| Buried |
St Matthew's Churchyard, Blackmoor
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1912–1945 |
| Rank | Lieutenant-Colonel |
| Unit | 7th Battalion, The Bedfordshire Regiment Royal Engineers |
| Battles/wars | World War I World War II |
| Awards |  Victoria CrossSilver Medal of Military Valor (Italy) |
| Other work | Teacher |
Tom Edwin Adlam (born October 21, 1893 – died May 28, 1975) was a very brave English soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy. This special medal can be given to British and Commonwealth forces. He earned this award during World War I for his amazing actions in 1916. Later, he also served in World War II.
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A Hero in World War I
Tom Adlam was 22 years old when he showed incredible courage. He was a temporary second lieutenant in the 7th Battalion of The Bedfordshire Regiment. This happened during World War I on September 27, 1916. The event took place at Thiepval, France, during the Battle of the Somme.
The Battle for Thiepval
A part of a village had not been captured the day before. It was very important to take this area for future plans. This small attack faced very heavy machine gun and rifle fire. Second Lieutenant Adlam knew that time was crucial. He quickly moved from one shell hole to another under heavy fire. He gathered his men for a sudden charge. He also collected many enemy grenades for this attack.
Wounded but Still Leading
During this time, Adlam was wounded in the leg. But he did not stop. He was still able to throw grenades further than the enemy. Then, he saw his chance. Even with his wound, he led his men in a rush. They captured the position and defeated the enemy soldiers there.
Throughout that day, he kept leading his men in attacks using bombs. The next day, he again showed amazing courage. He was wounded again and could not throw bombs. Yet, he continued to lead his men forward. His incredible example and bravery, along with his smart leadership, had a huge impact.
Why His Actions Mattered
Major-General Ivor Maxse, who commanded the 18th (Eastern) Division, later praised Adlam. He said that Adlam's bravery and leadership were key to the success. His actions helped two companies of the Bedfordshire Regiment. They cleared and secured the last part of the Thiepval objective. This small but successful operation was vital. Without it, a larger attack on Schwaben Redoubt could not have happened.
His Thoughts on Leadership
In 1973, Tom Adlam was interviewed. He shared his thoughts on leadership. He said, "Some officers would think that they had to do better than their own men." But he believed differently. "If I found a man who could do something better than me I’d say ‘Well do that’." He thought his men liked this approach. "A man likes to be recognised as being a responsible person." This shows how he trusted his soldiers.
Life After the War
After World War I, Tom Adlam became a teacher. He taught at Brook Street School in Basingstoke. He was also a member of the National Union of Teachers.
Service in World War II
Tom Adlam also served in World War II. He joined the Royal Engineers (Movement Control Section). He reached the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Where to See His Medal
His Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at Salisbury Guild Hall.
His Voice in a Film
Tom Adlam's voice was used in a famous World War I film. The movie is called They Shall Not Grow Old, directed by Peter Jackson.
