Background
Edwards was born in Queenstown (now named Cobh), County Cork, Ireland.
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Frederick Edwards
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Career
He could not read or write. He was 21 years old, and a private in the 12th Battalion, The Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge"s Own), British Army during the First World War, and was awarded the Venture capital for his deeds on 26 September 1916 at Thiepval, France: part of the line was held up by machine-gun fire and all the officers had become casualties. There was confusion and indication of retirement.
Private Edwards, grasping the situation and on his own initiative, dashed out towards the gun, which he knocked out with his bombs.
This very gallant act, coupled with great presence of mind and disregard of personal danger, made further advance possible and cleared up a dangerous situation. He was later promoted to corporal and after leaving the army he was forced to sell his medal to make ends meet.
He died on 9 March 1964 at the Royal Star and Garter Home in Richmond (which was then in Surrey and is now in London) and is buried in Richmond Cemetery. Edwards was portrayed by Adam Webb in the 2006 British Broadcasting Corporation docudrama The Somme – From Defeat to Victory.
Achievements
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Born
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Died
March 9, 1964 (aged 69) -
Nationality
Irish
Awards
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Victoria Cross Victoria Cross
The Victoria Cross (VC) is the highest military decoration awarded for valour 'in the face of the enemy' to members of the armed forces of various Commonwealth countries, and previous British Empire territories.The Victoria Cross (VC) is the highest military decoration awarded for valour 'in the face of the enemy' to members of the armed forces of various Commonwealth countries, and previous British Empire territories.