Harold Jackson (VC)

Harold Jackson VC (31 May 1892 – 24 August 1918) was an English recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

He was 25 years old, and a sergeant in the 7th (S) Battalion, The East Yorkshire Regiment, British Army during the First World War when he performed an act of bravery for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

Jackson was born 31 May 1892 to Thomas and Mary Ann Jackson from Kirton, Boston, Lincolnshire.

During the First World War, his act of bravery on 22 March 1918 at Hermies, France earned him the Victoria Cross.

For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. Sjt. Jackson volunteered and went out through the hostile barrage and brought back valuable information regarding the enemy's movements. Later, when the enemy had established themselves in our line, this N.C.O. rushed at them, and single-handed, bombed them out into the open. Shortly afterwards, again single-handed, he stalked an enemy machine-gun, threw Mills bombs at the detachment, and put the gun out of action. On a subsequent occasion when all his officers had become casualties, this very gallant N.C.O. led his company in the attack, and, when ordered to retire, he withdrew the company successfully under heavy fire. He then went out repeatedly under heavy fire and carried in wounded.

He was killed in action at Flers, France on 24 August 1918 and is buried at the AIF Burial Ground, Glas Lane, Flers.