Walter Mills (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Walter Mills
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| Born | 21 July 1894 Oldham, Lancashire |
| Died | 11 December 1917 (aged 23) Givenchy, France |
| Buried |
Gorre British Cemetery, Beuvry
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | -1917 † |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | The Manchester Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Walter Mills was a very brave English soldier who lived from 1894 to 1917. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest and most important award for bravery in the face of the enemy. This special medal is given to soldiers from the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries.
A Young Soldier's Bravery
Walter Mills was 23 years old when he showed incredible courage during World War I. He was a soldier, known as a Private, in the British Army. He belonged to a group called the 1/10th Battalion of the Manchester Regiment.
His Amazing Actions
On December 11, 1917, Private Mills was on duty near a place called Red Dragon Crater in Givenchy, France. Suddenly, the enemy attacked with a strong gas attack. This gas made it very hard to breathe and fight. After the gas, the enemy soldiers started to attack on the ground.
Even though Private Mills was badly affected by the gas, he didn't give up. He bravely faced the enemy all by himself. He kept throwing bombs to stop them until more soldiers arrived to help. He stayed at his post, fighting hard, until the enemy was finally pushed back.
A Hero's Sacrifice
After the battle, Private Mills was being carried away because of his injuries. Sadly, he died from the gas poisoning. But because of his amazing bravery and effort, the enemy was defeated. He made sure that the army's position stayed safe. For his incredible courage and sacrifice, he was given the Victoria Cross.
Walter Mills was buried at Gorre British & Indian Cemetery in France.
Remembering Walter Mills
His Victoria Cross medal was later buried with his daughter, Ellen, who passed away in 1934. Many years later, on December 11, 2017, a special plaque was placed at Oldham Parish Church. This plaque was put there to remember Walter Mills and his heroic actions.
