Wilfred Edwards (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Wilfred Edwards
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| Born | 16 February 1893 Norwich, Norfolk |
| Died | 4 January 1972 Leeds, West Yorkshire |
| Buried |
Upper and Lower Wortley Cemetery, Leeds
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Major |
| Unit | King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry Royal Army Ordnance Corps |
| Battles/wars | World War I World War II |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
Major Wilfred Edwards was a very brave English soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for courage. This special medal is given to soldiers who show amazing bravery when facing the enemy. It is awarded by the British and Commonwealth forces.
Contents
Who Was Wilfred Edwards?
Wilfred Edwards was born on February 16, 1893. He grew up in Norwich, England. When he was 24 years old, he joined the British Army. He became a private in the 7th Battalion of The King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry.
His Amazing Bravery in World War I
Wilfred Edwards showed incredible courage on August 16, 1917. This happened during World War I in Langemarck, Belgium. His army unit was fighting near a strong concrete fort.
Facing Danger Head-On
During the battle, all the officers in his company were hurt or lost. Wilfred, who was a private, didn't hesitate. He ran forward even though enemy machine guns were firing. He faced heavy rifle fire from the fort.
He threw bombs through the fort's openings. Then, he climbed on top of the fort. He waved to his company, telling them to advance. Because of his brave actions, three enemy officers and 30 other soldiers were captured.
Helping His Unit
After this, Wilfred did very important work as a runner. This meant he carried messages between different parts of his army unit. He eventually helped guide most of his battalion through very difficult ground. He was a great example to everyone. He never seemed to care about the danger he was in.
After the War
Wilfred Edwards was given a higher rank in the army in December 1917. He became a second lieutenant, which is a junior officer. He left the army in June 1919.
When World War II started, he joined the army again. He continued to serve and rose to the rank of major.
His Legacy
Wilfred Edwards passed away in January 1972. His special medals are now on display. You can see them at the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry Museum in Doncaster, England.
