An act of incredible bravery won William Jackson a Victoria Cross

PRIVATE William Jackson had his arm blown off in France in 1916, but that didn’t stop him dragging injured soldiers off the battlefield.

ID/No/P01383.006 Private John William Alexander Jackson VC of 17th Battalion, 5th Brigade, 2nd Division, awarded Victoria Cro...

PRIVATE William Jackson was awarded a Victoria Cross for dragging two soldiers to safety after his arm was blown off in France in 1916.

The act of pure bravery earnt the soldier the highest military honour the British Empire could offer — and a permanent place in Anzac history.

YOUR GUIDE TO ANZAC DAY SERVICES ON THE GOLD COAST
THE MOTHER WHO SENT A HSUBAND AND THREE SONS OFF TO WAR
The Western Australian soldier’s family moved to the Tweed Coast after he died 1959.

Despite losing an arm Private John William Alexander Jackson dragged two soldiers to safety, an act of heroism that earned him the Victoria Cross.

Murwillumbah RSL outgoing president Derek Sims, 80, was tracked down by the man’s great-niece after asking the community to put forward the names of those who served in Gallipoli.

“She told us she was related to a VC recipient and we didn’t believe her at first,” he said

“We looked it up and read this amazing story about the guy. He was so well respected that he served as an adviser in World War II with only one arm.”

Mr Sims said Pte Jackson and his family would be honoured at a memorial service at the Tweed Shire Council chambers today at 5.30am.

“We found 123 people who served at Gallipoli who have links to people in the area and we will read out each of their names,” he said.

“Each of these soldiers has a story of heroics and their contribution is why we remember.

“I would urge everyone in the area to come on down and join us for the memorial.”

Originally published as An act of incredible bravery won William Jackson a Victoria Cross