Wilfrith Elstob facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Wilfrith Elstob
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| Born | 8 September 1888 Chichester, Sussex |
| Died | 21 March 1918 (aged 29) Saint-Quentin, France |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1914–1918 |
| Rank | Lieutenant Colonel |
| Commands held | 16th Battalion, The Manchester Regiment |
| Battles/wars | First World War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross Distinguished Service Order Military Cross Mentioned in Despatches |
Wilfrith Elstob (born September 8, 1888 – died March 21, 1918) was a brave English soldier. He was a Lieutenant Colonel in the British Army. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy. This special medal is given to soldiers from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries.
Early Life and Military Service
Wilfrith Elstob was born in Chichester, England, in 1888. His father was a church leader named Rev. Canon J. G. Elstob. Wilfrith went to school at Christ's Hospital. Before he joined the army, he worked as a schoolteacher.
When the First World War began, Wilfrith volunteered to serve. He quickly rose through the ranks. He became a temporary Lieutenant Colonel. He was in charge of the 16th Battalion of the Manchester Regiment.
Heroic Actions and the Victoria Cross
Wilfrith Elstob earned his Victoria Cross on March 21, 1918. He was 29 years old at the time. This happened near Saint-Quentin, France. It was the first day of a major attack by the German army. This attack was called the German spring offensive.
Lieutenant Colonel Elstob showed incredible courage. He defended a place called the Manchester Redoubt. He and his soldiers fought bravely against the enemy. Sadly, he was killed in action on that same day. His bravery saved many lives and helped his unit.
Remembering a Hero
Wilfrith Elstob's Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at the Museum of the Manchester Regiment. This museum is located in Ashton Town Hall in England.
Wilfrith Elstob does not have a known grave. However, he is remembered in several places. His name is on the Pozières Memorial in France. This memorial honors soldiers from the Fifth Army who went missing. He is also remembered on the Macclesfield War Memorial in Cheshire. There is also a special memorial for him at All Saints Church, Siddington. This was the church where his father was a vicar.
