William Bruce (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Bruce
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| Born | 15 June 1890 Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Died | 19 December 1914 (aged 24) Givenchy, France |
| Buried |
Remembered on the Neuve-Chapelle Memorial
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Indian Army |
| Years of service | -1914 † |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | 59th Scinde Rifles |
| Battles/wars | First World War
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| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
William Arthur McCrae Bruce (born June 15, 1890 – died December 19, 1914) was a brave Scottish soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery in the British and Commonwealth forces. He earned this award during the First World War at the Battle of Givenchy in France.
William Bruce was born in Edinburgh, Scotland. He went to school at Victoria College, Jersey on the Channel Islands. After that, he trained to be an officer at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. He then joined the 59th Scinde Rifles, part of the Indian Army. He was given the Victoria Cross after he died in battle.
A Hero in the First World War
William Bruce was 24 years old when he showed amazing bravery. He was a Lieutenant in the 59th Scinde Rifles, which was part of the British Indian Army. This happened during the First World War.
What He Did
On December 19, 1914, near a place called Givenchy, Lieutenant Bruce was leading a small group of soldiers. They were in a night attack and managed to capture one of the enemy's trenches. Even though he was badly wounded in his neck, he kept walking up and down the trench. He encouraged his men to keep fighting against several enemy counter-attacks.
He continued to lead and inspire his men for several hours until he was killed. There was very heavy firing from rifles and bombs all day. It was because of Lieutenant Bruce's smart plans and his brave example that his men were able to hold the trench. They held it until it got dark, when the enemy finally took the trench back.
The Victoria Cross
The Victoria Cross is the highest award for bravery that a soldier can receive in the British and Commonwealth forces. It is given for showing incredible courage when facing the enemy. William Bruce was given this special award after he died, because of his amazing bravery and dedication to his duty.
Remembering William Bruce
William Bruce's Victoria Cross medal was bought by Victoria College, Jersey. This was the school where he studied. To honor him, the school named one of its original four houses after him. The other houses are named after other brave former students who also received the Victoria Cross.
Each year on Remembrance Day, the stories of these brave soldiers are read aloud. This helps everyone remember their courage and sacrifice.
