William Allison White facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Allison White
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| Born | 19 October 1894 Mitcham, Surrey |
| Died | 13 September 1974 (aged 79) Wellington, Shropshire |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | King's Own Royal Regiment Machine Gun Corps Royal Artillery |
| Battles/wars | First World War Second World War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross Territorial Decoration |
William Allison White was an English soldier known for his incredible bravery. He received the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest award for courage in the face of the enemy. This special medal is given to British and Commonwealth forces. He also received the Territorial Decoration (TD).
White was 23 years old when he earned the Victoria Cross during the First World War. He was a temporary Second Lieutenant in the 38th Battalion of the Machine Gun Corps. This unit was part of the 38th (Welsh) Division of the British Army.
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William Allison White: A True War Hero
William Allison White was born on 19 October 1894. His birthplace was Mitcham, a town in Surrey, England. He grew up and later joined the British Army. He served during a very important time in history, the First World War.
Incredible Bravery in Battle
On 18 September 1918, Second Lieutenant White showed amazing courage in Gouzeaucourt, France. His unit's advance was stopped by enemy machine-guns. White decided to act quickly and bravely.
Facing Enemy Guns Alone
First, he rushed a machine-gun position all by himself. He shot the three enemy gunners and captured their gun. This action helped his fellow soldiers move forward.
Later, he attacked another machine-gun position. Two men went with him, but they were both shot down right away. White did not give up. He continued alone towards the gun. He killed the five enemy soldiers manning the gun and captured it.
Leading the Attack
On a third occasion, the advance was again stopped by heavy enemy fire. White quickly gathered a small group of soldiers. He led them in rushing the enemy position. His actions caused the enemy to suffer many losses.
After these brave attacks, White worked to make the captured area safe. He skillfully used both the captured enemy machine-guns and his own. This helped his unit hold the new position and caused more damage to the enemy. His fearless actions inspired all the soldiers around him.
Life After the War
After the First World War, William Allison White continued his service. In 1939, he became a Captain in the Royal Artillery. This was part of the Territorial Army. He also served during the Second World War.
White married Violet Victoria Price. She passed away in 1956 after 35 years of marriage. William Allison White died on 13 September 1974, at the age of 79. He passed away in Wellington, Shropshire. He was cremated at Emstrey Crematorium in Shrewsbury. His name is remembered on his wife's headstone in St John's Churchyard, Hildenborough, Kent.
