James Somers | |
---|---|
James Somers, VC as depicted on a Gallaher Cigarette Card (photo submitted by Martin Hornby) |
|
Born | 12 June 1884 Belturbet, County Cavan, Ireland |
Died | 7 May 1918 (aged 33) |
Allegiance | United Kingdom |
Service/branch | British Army |
Rank | Sergeant |
Unit | Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers |
Battles/wars | |
Awards | VC |
James Somers VC (12 June 1884 – 7 May 1918) was an Irish 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.
Somers was born in Belturbet, County Cavan on 12 June 1884. He was 31 years old, and a sergeant in the 1st Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, British Army during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.
On 1/2 July 1915, in Gallipoli, Turkey, when, owing to hostile bombing, some of his troops had retired from a sap, Sergeant Somers remained alone there until a party brought up bombs. He then climbed over into the Turkish trench and bombed the Turks with great effect. Later on, he advanced into the open under heavy fire and held back the enemy by throwing bombs into their flank until a barricade had been established. During this period, he frequently ran to and from his trenches to obtain fresh supplies of bombs.
In a letter to his father, Somers wrote:
He had been severely wounded during the Retreat from Mons in August 1914.
He died on 7 May 1918 (aged 33), and was buried with full military honours in Modreeny Church of Ireland cemetery. His Union Jack-draped coffin was carried on a gun carriage, led by the Pipe Band of the Cameron Highlanders. His headstone states simply.
Listed in order of publication year