On 29 June 1918, a 23-year-old miner received the Victoria Cross from King George V, for ‘the most conspicuous bravery in the face of the enemy. Acting as a stretcher bearer, he showed a most magnificent example of courage and devotion to duty.’ On nine occasions, Private Thomas Young carried injured soldiers to safety in broad daylight and under heavy machine gun fire. He served in the Durham Light Infantry, 9th battalion, and now his relative, our columnist Carol McGiffin, is keeping his memory alive…
Carol, your great uncle received the Victoria Cross and the following day, in front of 15,000 people in Durham Park, Lord Durham presented him with an inscribed watch, a sliver cigarette case and War Bonds. When he spoke, it was very moving…
Yes. I have…
