WW1 Britain''s answer to American Hero, Sgt. Alvin York - Thomas Jones VC

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  • Опубліковано 15 чер 2024
  • Thomas Jones VC, from Runcorn Cheshire, was Britain's answer to American hero, Sgt Alvin York, who captured over 100 Germans single-handed.
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    / @thehistorychap
    Whilst the feats of both men are incredible, Alvin York became more famous not least because a Hollywood film was made about him - "Sergeant York" starring Gary Cooper.
    Thomas Alfred Jones was born in Runcorn, north west England in 1880.
    In 1914, at the outbreak of World War One, he was recalled to the army (having served in the Territorial Army - reserves) and joined the local Cheshire Regiment.
    On the 25th September 1916, his battalion took part in the battle of Morval, during the larger battle of the Somme.
    Having successfully cleared the Germans from in front of the village, his unit were ordered to dig a defensive position.
    It was during this digging that they came under fire from German snipers, some of whom were shooting under the cover of white flags.
    An incensed Thomas Jones grabbed his rifle and headed out towards the German lines telling his officer: "“If I’m going to die, I’ll die fighting not digging” .
    Making his way across the 200 yards (180m) of no mans land he shot a German sniper in a tree before taking out two more Germans who were firing on him from their positions.
    He then jumped into the enemy trench where he shot at least 8 Germans dead before starting to lob grenades into bunkers.
    Rapidly, under this ferocious attack, Germans started to emerge with their hands in the air.
    In all, Thomas Jones, captured 102 German soldiers.
    By the time his comrades arrived they found the Germans in a hollow being guarded by a solitary British soldier.
    Thomas Alfred Jones from the Cheshire Regiment was awarded the Victoria Cross - Britain's highest medal for valour.
    Later in the war he was also awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM).
    He lived the rest of his life in Runcorn, Cheshire and died in 1956.
    He is buried in Runcorn cemetery.
    In 2014 on the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of The Great War, a statue was unveiled of Thomas in his hometown.
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    Chapters
    0:00 Intro
    0:56 Runcorn Cheshire
    2:41 WW1
    5:11 Battle of Morval
    6:17 Jones snaps
    7:28 Kills 11 Germans
    8:21 Takes 102 prisoners
    10:36 Reinforcements arrive
    11:34 Alvin York
    12:09 Victoria Cross
    14:09 The History Chap
    Sources include: "Todger" by Neil Thornton, VC & GC Associations, Imperial War Museum and the Victoria Cross Trust.
    Follow me at:
    www.thehistorychap.com
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    / thehistorychap
    My name is Chris Green and I love to share stories from British history. Not just because they are interesting but because, good or bad, they have shaped the world we live in today.
    History should not be stuffy or a long list of dates or kings & queens.
    So rather than lectures or UA-cam animations, I tell stories that bring the past to life.
    My aim is to be chat as if I were having a coffee or meal with you. Jean in Maryland, USA recently wrote: "Chris, is the history teacher I wish I had at school!"
    Just for the record, I do have a history degree in Medieval & Modern history from the University of Birmingham.
    Disclaimer: All opinions and comments expressed in the 'Comments' section do not reflect the opinions of Chris Green Communication Ltd t/a The History Chap. All opinions and comments should contribute to the dialogue. Chris Green Communication Ltd does not condone written attacks, insults, racism, sexism, extremism, violence or otherwise questionable comments or material in the 'Comments' section, and reserves the right to delete any comment violating this rule or to block any poster from the channel.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 362

  • @reactivearmour5126
    @reactivearmour5126 11 місяців тому +99

    Again I say, the British need to get back to telling stories like this in film.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +10

      I could star in it. I'm only a couple of inches taller but as for the 9 stone in weight...I don't think I was that low even when at university!

    • @reactivearmour5126
      @reactivearmour5126 11 місяців тому +2

      I’d love to see you play Thomas Jones! Don’t worry about your weight - filmmakers can do wonders with CGI now!

    • @arslongavitabrevis5136
      @arslongavitabrevis5136 11 місяців тому

      @@reactivearmour5126 LOL 😆😆😆

    • @arslongavitabrevis5136
      @arslongavitabrevis5136 11 місяців тому +10

      If someone today makes a film about Tom Jones, it will be played by a black actor and his best mate would be a homosexual.

    • @toker6664
      @toker6664 11 місяців тому +1

      British media class hates Britain tho
      He would be played by Idris Elba

  • @rangerista3933
    @rangerista3933 11 місяців тому +38

    What an absolute hero, wonderful that his story is still alive today.
    He's a credit for the ages, like all our Tommies, to our country and the gallantry of its fighting men.
    God Bless him!
    🇬🇧 🇬🇧 🇬🇧

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +2

      Thanks for taking the time to comment. Apppreciated.

  • @arslongavitabrevis5136
    @arslongavitabrevis5136 11 місяців тому +53

    Absolutely amazing. He was what you can call "a legendary hero". His story confirms what my dad told me. "All of us have a role to play in life, however we do not know the end nor the script. That is what we call Fate" In other words, Tom Jones was not "lucky", he simply was destined to survive and die of old age. What a hero! He deserved 2 Victoria Crosses! You are a born story-teller. Greetings from grey and humid Buenos Aires!

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +3

      Glad you enjoyed it. Reading a book about him, it seems he was every bit as hard in civilian life.

  • @JamesThomas-gg6il
    @JamesThomas-gg6il 11 місяців тому +23

    Oh definitely should be a movie, an historically accurate one would be great. I love that the statue included the dent. Surprised it didn't ring his bell. To all of the heroes , God bless.

  • @stephenbesley3177
    @stephenbesley3177 11 місяців тому +31

    My grandfather was in his 30's when he joined up, a Scotsman in a Welsh regiment. He died long before I was born which has always been a regret of mine. I knew a few old soldiers when I was a boy and often wish I could have recorded some of those elder guys knowing what they had been through.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +8

      I agree. There were so many stories and we didn't ask (and they didn't share).

    • @colinb5415
      @colinb5415 11 місяців тому +2

      You are of the same opinion as I am. When I was a young boy I used to sit in my Grandfathers pub at lunch time with his friends as they played dominoes. I used to shuffle and deal said playing pieces. Those ordinary old men, just Grandads friends, but they in their younger days had been anything but ordinary. All WW1 veterans, none ever mentioning anything about that time. All long gone now and mostly with their stories consigned to an unknown history.

  • @stigg333
    @stigg333 11 місяців тому +29

    What an amazing man Thomas Jones VC was and thank you for highlighting this absolute hero, stay well.

  • @1davidpeter
    @1davidpeter 11 місяців тому +8

    Sargent York is a great picture about a very humble man, and I’m grateful to hear about this similar British hero

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Another viewer has told a story of yet another humble man who did a similar feat in WW1.

  • @rodeastell3615
    @rodeastell3615 11 місяців тому +25

    What a man, what a character. Great to hear about Thomas Jones VC. There are so many WWI documentaries that leave you wondering if the British were even in the war. Thanks for posting.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +3

      My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

    • @pookyfatball
      @pookyfatball 11 місяців тому +3

      Great story.would have loved to have met him

  • @foolonthehill731
    @foolonthehill731 11 місяців тому +18

    What an amazing man. Thank you for sharing his story.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

  • @nathanappleby5342
    @nathanappleby5342 11 місяців тому +10

    HE TRULY WAS A FIGHTER! His marksmanship was an exact reflection of the marksmanship of the BEF of 1914. I am telling you, there is a lot from that era the British Army can learn from. What Jones accomplished that day was one of the greatest single feats of soldiership in military history and he was a VOLUNTEER just like the BEF of 1914! As for his marksmanship and that of the BEF at the beginning of the war, I wish that the British Army of today would be at that same standard. It was most useful back then and can be useful today. Jones more than deserved the medals he got! Well done, Chris and keep rolling them out!

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

    • @nathanappleby5342
      @nathanappleby5342 11 місяців тому

      @@TheHistoryChap Your Welcome!

    • @lordeden2732
      @lordeden2732 6 місяців тому +1

      Most could not shoot straight to save their lives.
      This first started in both the boer wars and just before the First World War.
      The thought of having to train men to shoot in mass was a headache for the War office.
      Then along came The News of the World who started to sponsor Rifle and Pistol clubs in City's Towns and Villages up and down the UK.
      They also gave prizes of solid silver teaspoons for the best-submitted target scores.
      My father who got his training in the Grenadier Guards used to win so many of these spoons ( You could recognise them by a target on the handle end) he would give away sets of six as wedding presents to friends and colleges.
      There most be loads out there .😢

  • @1anmagnus
    @1anmagnus 11 місяців тому +11

    I had heard this story before but you tell it better. An amazing man, typical of those true heroes, modest to the end.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +3

      I read that he was a hard man who more than once used his fists to sort out a disagreement. Best to have on your side!

  • @sspiby
    @sspiby 11 місяців тому +21

    My great grandfather charged in the Somme and was wounded . He was saved by the Germans and looked after in their hospitals . He went a long way to be saved and has me as part of his legacy . Love too those who risk their lives to save others

    • @arslongavitabrevis5136
      @arslongavitabrevis5136 11 місяців тому +2

      Wonderful words. Very true.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +2

      Thanks for taking the time to share his story.

    • @jameseadie7145
      @jameseadie7145 11 місяців тому +1

      My great uncle William was shot in the face (ww1) he too was looked after by the Germans. After the war, he kept in touch with the German surgeon and had a German Shepherd which he called Fritz.

    • @arslongavitabrevis5136
      @arslongavitabrevis5136 11 місяців тому +2

      @@jameseadie7145 I am glad your great uncle survived. I am sick and tired of the never-ending propaganda about the "evil" Germans. Most soldiers, of all European nations, were decent, honourable men; which makes even more tragic the awful slaughter of 1914=1918. Regards from Argentina.

  • @Thomo2461
    @Thomo2461 11 місяців тому +8

    What a fantastic person he was and modest to boot....brave but mad as a hatter and improvising when needed. Should have been promoted. Thanks Chris for a great story.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +4

      I need to find out why he wasn't.

    • @Thomo2461
      @Thomo2461 11 місяців тому +1

      There's always a reason in the military. It would be interesting to know if possible. 👍

  • @rangerista3933
    @rangerista3933 11 місяців тому +8

    Regarding the Battle of the Somme, it would be an obvious follow up to this immense story, to tell the tales of all our VC heroes in that almighty clash of arms.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Battle of the Somme is huge. There is bound to be a regiment I forget to talk about which will cause some vets grief! But, seriously, it is a story that needs telling and I am up for it.

  • @garybrockwell2031
    @garybrockwell2031 11 місяців тому +16

    Here's another great story that leaves me with tears in my eyes of how proud I am of this truly brave man💪😢🇬🇧
    To say enough's enough after seeing a boy die😵🤬 that's laying down your life for your brother's...
    God was with our Tommy that day🙏💯🇬🇧🆘 fancy our country never letting us remember such valour🤔🤫🗣️📢🎬🇬🇧💯
    Lest we forget 🙏💪✌️🙏 thank you for the story of the great but humble worrier.....WE WILL REMEMBER 🙏✌️

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for taking the time to write that passionate comment.

  • @peterscrafton5212
    @peterscrafton5212 11 місяців тому +7

    A truly amazing, gallant and modest man. Apparently, such modestly is a common trait VC holders, who (sadly) are, I believe, encouraged to keep the real medal in a bank, or similar, and to buy a copy and wear that, as values are "off the clock"

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      I wasn't aware of that. Thanks for sharing.

  • @Harperslj
    @Harperslj 11 місяців тому +17

    Hi Chris,
    I was wondering if you would be able to do a video on Wilfrith Elstob V.C, a modern King Leonidas if you will. I’d love to hear you tell his story. Upon the Germans demanding he surrender he defiantly shouted “NEVER!” And was shot dead. He made an unforgettable last stand

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +3

      Thanks for the suggestion. I will add to my (ever-growing) list.

  • @kensmith8546
    @kensmith8546 11 місяців тому +4

    WOW what a story !!! He should be a house hold name , yes a film would be a fantastic Thank you (belated of course) and tribute to such a hero. Thank you for posting his amazing and heart warming story!!

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed it.

    • @nigelsmith2457
      @nigelsmith2457 11 місяців тому

      He is a household name. Everyone has heard of Tom Jones. Why why why Delilah.........

  • @davidtrick7791
    @davidtrick7791 11 місяців тому +5

    Totally agree with you about this being turned into a film, would be great to show the heroism endured of this fine brave soldier,
    Ps and yes, I, a fully grown adult still chuckled like a school boy hearing a swear word at his nickname 😂

  • @harryshriver6223
    @harryshriver6223 11 місяців тому +2

    I liked the nickname "Todger ", very appropriate for the daring Brit who charged into the German trenches. I enjoy the hilarity in your voice when you find something humorous, like using the tactic of getting their great coats to buy time for reinforcements to arrive. A hero and remind me never to make him angry, you would not like me when I am angry! 😊

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Couldn't use the nickname too often in case powers that be at YT thought I was being offensive!

    • @harryshriver6223
      @harryshriver6223 11 місяців тому +1

      @@TheHistoryChap I heard that bro, leave it up to the Geniuses at UA-cam censorship! LOL 😆 🤣 😂 😹

  • @scrullee17
    @scrullee17 7 місяців тому +2

    My father worked for Metropolitan Vickers in the late 1940s. Many employees were recently returned WW2 vets who would often gently tease the old man with the tea trolley about his age and that “old war” . One more informed colleague told them they should cease and to visit a local Runcorn pub to see Tom’s medals kept behind the bar.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  23 дні тому

      Thank for watching my video & sharing your interesting story.

  • @bullettube9863
    @bullettube9863 11 місяців тому +11

    A German veteran once commented that very few German soldiers exhibited the initiative and bravery of British or American soldiers in combat. He wondered why this was so and said it never occurred to him or his fellow soldiers to do what allied soldiers did. I can't verify for my self that German soldiers weren't as brave as allied soldiers but this veteran sounded serious. Could it be true? Sgt. York and Priv. Jones were certainly examples of incredible bravery and maybe later they thought they were also incredibly foolish, but by golly they certainly inspire respect!

    • @Kage342
      @Kage342 11 місяців тому +1

      No side can claim to have been braver than the other, both sides can say they have their own examples of bravery/foolishness.
      The main thing I believe it boils down to is individual initiative. German soldiers at the time had training in them to make them superb soldiers but also were made into men who did not question orders or do things on their own.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Thanks for taking the time to comment. Respect indeed!

    • @paulharper6464
      @paulharper6464 11 місяців тому

      @@Kage342It’s funny but the Germans had exactly the same opinion about the British. They thought the British lacked initiative once their officers became casualties even comparing them unfavourably in this respect to the Russians.

    • @trickiejohn
      @trickiejohn 11 місяців тому

      A few very interesting points, the truth will be somewhere in the middle I expect. Soldiers with sound training and leader, showing initiative and willing to go the extra mile. Again Soldiers poorly trained in an atmosphere of do as I say not as I do, resulting in sub optimal initiative and zeal. All military’s suffer with this to some extent.

  • @danjames5552
    @danjames5552 11 місяців тому +3

    Just found your channel and have subscribed, my favourite V.C is the Jackson one when the bloke went out on the aeroplane wing when it was on fire , first opening his parachute and telling his crew mates to hold the ropes of it so he could go put the fire out on the engine .

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for your support. Hope you enjoy more of my stories.

  • @ladymeghenderson9337
    @ladymeghenderson9337 11 місяців тому +1

    I love this story, a walking tornado. Thank you for this Chris.

  • @DarrenMarsh-kx8hd
    @DarrenMarsh-kx8hd 11 місяців тому +2

    Marvellous presentation Mr Green, if only the studios would make military films about REAL people and events,rather than conjure up fictional nonsense....there's so much material to choose from.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Yes, so much to choose from. Maybe people couldn't believe real people do such feats of bravery. Who knows?

    • @DarrenMarsh-kx8hd
      @DarrenMarsh-kx8hd 11 місяців тому

      @TheHistoryChap I did hear in the extras of some war movie (13 Hours I think) that they had had to tone done some of the actual heroics that were in the film, because the audience would find them too far fetched.

  • @patrickwalton1768
    @patrickwalton1768 10 місяців тому

    Wow. That was just an amazing act of British Badassery! VC is in my opinion, well deserved. Respect...

  • @byzantiumisagreatfilmyo4808
    @byzantiumisagreatfilmyo4808 9 місяців тому

    Hero! 🇬🇧 thanks for putting that great story out there....

  • @nigelhamilton815
    @nigelhamilton815 11 місяців тому +1

    A very special generation.. Thank you for your service.

  • @mollysimmer5230
    @mollysimmer5230 9 місяців тому

    What a great man would love to see that film 🎥

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  9 місяців тому

      That would be a great film wouldn't it?

  • @Unmasking_Viandalisme
    @Unmasking_Viandalisme 11 місяців тому +2

    Wonderful history.. never gets old.👍

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Thank you for taking the time to comment.

  • @lllordllloyd
    @lllordllloyd 11 місяців тому

    British history fans of my acquaintance are not very happy that Albert Jacka did so many unfathomably brave things. Bloody arrogant colonials!
    Great to hear about Thomas Jones VC. A hell of a feat.... and as you say, alongside the greatest feat of all.... survival. Seemingly not enough to gain promotion, let alone a commission.
    Thanks!

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Thanks for watching. Albert Jacka is for a future video. Please subscribe so you don't miss it.

  • @TheRobby1971
    @TheRobby1971 11 місяців тому +1

    Utterly brilliant, definitely one for Guy Ritchie to make. ❤ Thanks Chris ❤

  • @rhett1029
    @rhett1029 11 місяців тому +2

    Alvin York has a very quick wit that reminds me of some of the sayings of the British soldiers you tell in your videos.
    For example during an attack a German officer was preparing to surrender so shouted out “English?” Meaning the language but York responded “No, American!”
    Later a American General said to York “Sergeant I heard you captured the whole German Army” and he simply responded “No Sir only a 100 of them”

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Brilliant lines from Sgt. York. Thanks for sharing.

  • @thevelvetskyandstars
    @thevelvetskyandstars 11 місяців тому +2

    Remarkable!

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for watching. Two remarkable men from 2 great countries.

  • @rwdyeriii
    @rwdyeriii 7 місяців тому

    Definitely someone who needs to be remembered.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  7 місяців тому

      He certainly is remembered in Runcorn

  • @paullesliehutson5818
    @paullesliehutson5818 10 місяців тому

    An incredible story. Thanks!

  • @robertdore9592
    @robertdore9592 9 місяців тому

    This story puts me in mind of the Green Howard Stan Hollis VC; when asked why? he replied "I was angry that so many young men that I'd trained and lived with, were being slaughtered".

  • @resnonverba137
    @resnonverba137 11 місяців тому +1

    Thank you for sharing this wonderful story. It needs to be more widely known.

  • @commonsense2497
    @commonsense2497 5 місяців тому

    Thank you so much for this video I knew who Alvin York was, but I had never heard about this brave soldier.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  5 місяців тому

      I hope you enjoyed the story. Thanks for watching my video.

  • @mikeraw4371
    @mikeraw4371 11 місяців тому

    thank you for covering Tom, i live in Runcorn and past his statue most days and also have book by Liz Howard (curiositybookshop) from Runcorn about him.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Thanks for commenting. I wasn't aware of that book but have read the one by Neil Thornton.

  • @billmccarthy9689
    @billmccarthy9689 11 місяців тому +2

    Well Chis what an astonishing story.What a character. York did have sssistance at Meuse Argonne and that was two years after Thomas Jones.Runcorn is not far from my home residence and I will certainly make a visit and pay my respects. Incredible story. Befitting both received their countries highest honour. Another jewel. Thanks Chris.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      His Vc and the dented helmet are in the regimental museum at Chester Castle.

    • @billmccarthy9689
      @billmccarthy9689 11 місяців тому

      @@TheHistoryChap Thank you very much Chris as I was about to Google it. Take care.

    • @JamesThomas-gg6il
      @JamesThomas-gg6il 11 місяців тому

      You have to remember we Yanks were a bit late to the party.

    • @billmccarthy9689
      @billmccarthy9689 11 місяців тому

      @@JamesThomas-gg6il Ha ha, brilliant. Our American cousins are welcome to any party..

    • @JamesThomas-gg6il
      @JamesThomas-gg6il 11 місяців тому

      @@billmccarthy9689 it may end up with you coming to help us soon.

  • @colrhodes377
    @colrhodes377 11 місяців тому

    A brilliant story, beautifully presented

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Thank you for watching and for taking the time to comment.

  • @hadial-saadoon2114
    @hadial-saadoon2114 9 місяців тому +2

    He definitely warrants a movie. Having a bit of knowledge on the battle of the Somme it seems incredible that he survived the entire war without a scratch. That he remained a private throughout the war despite his heroism is hard to fathom. Then one remembers that he defied a direct order from his commanding officer to charge the German trench. Pure speculation on my part, of course.

    • @susanoconnell1314
      @susanoconnell1314 8 місяців тому

      Yes.That alone is the reason.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  8 місяців тому +1

      In his early days, he was as hard as nails by all local accounts

  • @lajoszlatos3285
    @lajoszlatos3285 11 місяців тому +4

    It's a fantastic story about a british hearo! Thank You as always!!!!

  • @attlee1945
    @attlee1945 10 місяців тому

    Brilliant story Chris

  • @gregedunham1
    @gregedunham1 11 місяців тому

    Great Story and well told!

  • @longyx321
    @longyx321 11 місяців тому

    Sgt York is on here...UA-cam
    Brilliant video..thank you.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for sharing and for taking the time to watch my video.

  • @iantregale7399
    @iantregale7399 10 місяців тому

    amazing tale thank you again

  • @MelanieMaguire
    @MelanieMaguire 11 місяців тому +3

    This is like a "Boys Own" story! I think the Germans' morale in that trench must have been very low The British and German trenches could have carried on firing on each other for who knows how long? But to see Tom Jones suddenly appear and start killing the men in the trench, looking so strong and certain of what he was doing, I think they just thought "it's over". And were probably glad it was over too. It's almost like he beat them psychologically. Backed up with superb fighting skills. Incredible courage and determination. What a man. Thank you History Chap for relating these stories of extraordinary heroism. So well told.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for watching and I'm glad you enjoyed it.

  • @jackgreenfitness3640
    @jackgreenfitness3640 11 місяців тому

    Fantastic video! Another great story

  • @nicholasroach3394
    @nicholasroach3394 11 місяців тому

    Brilliant 👍

  • @stonefree67
    @stonefree67 11 місяців тому

    Fantastic episode Mr Green.Thoroughly enjoyed this one. Thanks for sharing.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching.

  • @derekp2674
    @derekp2674 11 місяців тому

    Thanks again Chris, what an amazing story.

  • @michaellendzian2655
    @michaellendzian2655 11 місяців тому

    Excellent content

  • @davidwoods7720
    @davidwoods7720 11 місяців тому +1

    Thank you so much Chris

  • @tacraling
    @tacraling 11 місяців тому +1

    Thank you for another excellent video. I must say that I hadn't heard of this man before, but what a remarkable individual! Thank you for bringing his story to us.

  • @michaelbedinger4121
    @michaelbedinger4121 11 місяців тому +1

    An extraordinary gentleman. May he rest in peace 🙏 I wonder, did he ever hear of Sergeant York, and did Sergeant York ever hear of Thomas Jones VC ? Thank you very much for a very interesting video.

  • @peterbarker3433
    @peterbarker3433 11 місяців тому

    The stuff of legends - masterfully told - well done.

  • @sirwalterkissmecrack
    @sirwalterkissmecrack 11 місяців тому +1

    Excellent , love your enthusiasm and the way you put the stories across.

  • @simonnoble7589
    @simonnoble7589 11 місяців тому +1

    hello and thank you Chris .... your a gem

  • @stuartbuxton4316
    @stuartbuxton4316 11 місяців тому

    Chris another brilliant story! Worthy of a film!

  • @jimjolly4560
    @jimjolly4560 11 місяців тому +4

    Great video, if you wrote it as fiction I'd have called it unbelievable. Have you looked at the last surviving WW2 VC, John Cruickshank?

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +2

      Thanks for the suggestion. I will add him to my list.

  • @chrishamilton2527
    @chrishamilton2527 9 місяців тому

    What an incredible guy. Thank you for telling us his story.

  • @nigelmorroll3343
    @nigelmorroll3343 11 місяців тому

    It's always good to hear about people or events that have been forgotten or overlooked by other events or time.

  • @StephenLyons-tl8ie
    @StephenLyons-tl8ie 11 місяців тому

    Fantastic! What a hero!!

  • @nelsin1925
    @nelsin1925 11 місяців тому

    Well told.

  • @TheGreatWhiteScout
    @TheGreatWhiteScout 9 місяців тому

    Wonderful story.

  • @LeslieDevoe
    @LeslieDevoe 2 місяці тому +1

    Such magnificent valor. I wonder if, in the inception of the SAS, their motto was founded. He proves that it is true on the battlefield, "Who Dares Wins".

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  2 місяці тому

      Not sure Leslie, but it is a nice thought.

  • @dokkenratt
    @dokkenratt 11 місяців тому

    A heartwarming tale. Never underestimate the grit of the British Tommy!!

  • @shecksthesheckler423
    @shecksthesheckler423 11 місяців тому

    From my home town, he won the DCM and VC we have a lovely statue of him by the memorial

  • @jonmeek3879
    @jonmeek3879 11 місяців тому +1

    Amazing story!

  • @britishamerican4321
    @britishamerican4321 11 місяців тому +1

    "Who dares wins" comes to mind.

  • @petesmodelcarcustoms584
    @petesmodelcarcustoms584 11 місяців тому

    What a great tale👍I'm glad there's a statue of him. Working class bloke and not a big General. 👍🤔. Thanks for telling us about him

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

  • @billballbuster7186
    @billballbuster7186 11 місяців тому +1

    Very Interesting, never heard of Thomas Jones, should have made a movie.

  • @newy2242
    @newy2242 11 місяців тому +3

    Todger Jone is a hero within the Cheshire regiment. Ever Glourious

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      Hard as nails if you read other accounts of his life.

    • @newy2242
      @newy2242 11 місяців тому

      @@TheHistoryChap i was 22nd Cheshire Regiment, he is a very proud part of our regimental history. His life was one thing we first learned about , very interesting

  • @user-gz8nd2uu4f
    @user-gz8nd2uu4f 11 місяців тому +1

    remember that when Sgt York captured his Germans, which i think was October 1918 ,Germans were surrendering in droves, most of them were hungry and tired of war, bravo Thomas

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Interesting perspective. Thanks for taking the time to share.

  • @foundationofBritain
    @foundationofBritain 9 місяців тому

    As a Cheshireman my self, its this heroic story of an Englishman, a Cheshireman no less, that fills me with not only great English pride but also Cheshire pride as well... I don't know what it is about my native English Shire, but there seems to be little shortage of great heroic Englishmen that spring forth in England's time of need, to teach England's enemy's to Dance a Cheshire Round.
    Great video mate... Cheshire Lads are Chief of Men.

  • @davidcollins2648
    @davidcollins2648 11 місяців тому +1

    My grandfather was in the US army in WW 1and carried German shrapnel in his belly until he died at 96 years of age. Three times a widower. They don''t make men from such tough stuff like that any more.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Thanks so much for sharing. Incredible man.

  • @stephenturnbull7542
    @stephenturnbull7542 11 місяців тому

    I live in Runcorn. Todgers' story is still well known here. Thanks for making him known further afield.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому +1

      My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

  • @joeritchie4554
    @joeritchie4554 11 місяців тому

    What an awesome story! I am glad you posted this story because I learned something new. I never knew that this happened. However, here in the United States, we did not cover WWI very well in our history classes.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      I can well imagine WW2 is the big one in the States. In fairness, it tends to be in British schools too.

    • @joeritchie4554
      @joeritchie4554 11 місяців тому

      @@TheHistoryChap You are correct on that. They cover WW2 more deeply than our founding, our attachment to Britain, or any other aspect of our history. World History is now non-existent in our high schools. Sad

  • @SuperDonald64
    @SuperDonald64 6 місяців тому

    Incredible man

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  6 місяців тому

      He certainly was. If you haven’t already, please do subscribe to my channel, so you don’t miss future videos.

  • @redjacc7581
    @redjacc7581 11 місяців тому

    here here!

  • @11buster1000
    @11buster1000 11 місяців тому

    I love reading, but the telling of a story allows your imagination more freedom. From an avid reader but dyslexic. Thanks mate.

  • @gerardoramoncesarreynaldo9469
    @gerardoramoncesarreynaldo9469 11 місяців тому

    Nice one, Mr. Green. How about some stories about the fabled Gurkhas of the British Army in both world wars?

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Not the first person to request that. Let me see what I can do.

  • @expatexpat6531
    @expatexpat6531 11 місяців тому +1

    What a great story - thank you for that. BTW: There's no bayonet on the statue's rifle. The statue looks less imposing without it, and I'm sure the bayonet would have been useful in the trench...

  • @moobaz8675
    @moobaz8675 Місяць тому

    I never knew. Amazing.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  Місяць тому

      I’m glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.

  • @irish5347
    @irish5347 11 місяців тому

    Good man. I live not too far from where Alvin York lived. He was from the Cumberland Plateau of Tennessee (Pall Mall, TN), and I live in the Smoky Mtn foothills. Something interesting in the York story was that he used turkey calls (he knew how to call turkey to hunt them, important skill in turkey hunting) to get the Germans' attention and distract them. I don't know if that is 100% true considering the noise of battle, but that is the story (turkey calling is a loud and very distinct sound so possible). Have a good one!

  • @rogersimmons8788
    @rogersimmons8788 11 місяців тому

    And just over a century later, we have 'pride month'! Private Jones, a true hero. RIP sir.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Thanks for taking the time to comment.

  • @grzzz2287
    @grzzz2287 11 місяців тому

    Left you a Thank You on the original "Rambo" scripted video - which was pulled! So here's another because I enjoyed this story so much

  • @anselmdanker9519
    @anselmdanker9519 11 місяців тому

    This is a remarkable story. Thank and for retelling his story.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Thanks for watching and for commenting too.

  • @davidcunningham2074
    @davidcunningham2074 11 місяців тому +2

    Jones's action is more amazing than York's because this happened in
    1916 rather than in 1918 when many if not most German soldiers
    just wanted to surrender.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      That's an interesting take on the two situations. Thanks for taking the time to share.

  • @JohnHill-qo3hb
    @JohnHill-qo3hb 5 місяців тому

    I think my Dad, a Brit, summed up heroes in the non-American war story, he said "I know I was there, I know what I did, that's good enough", no, no heroic deeds, he went did his bit and luckily came home.

  • @jb6027
    @jb6027 11 місяців тому

    Amazing soldier.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      he was indeed. Thanks for watching.

  • @RajuDas-qu1li
    @RajuDas-qu1li 11 місяців тому

    Amazing! A genuine hero indeed! He displayed unimaginable valour and great control of his mind in the enemy trench.
    To me, he is someone who seems to be from King Arthur's undefeatable guards! Reincarnated! Rejuvenated! Only to save Britain from her foes and the disgrace caused by them.
    A lion of the lions that served England during WW1.
    Glory to the hero!

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      Thanks for taking the time to share your passionate comment.

  • @allanburt5250
    @allanburt5250 11 місяців тому +1

    What a story

  • @purpleshrike7057
    @purpleshrike7057 11 місяців тому

    A true hero - his story should be better known

  • @borisacat9182
    @borisacat9182 11 місяців тому +1

    When I was 8years old my grandad took me across our village of Hazel Grove to see his friend Wilfred (Wilf) Wood VC. Google him . In WW1 in northern Italy he took 140 and then another 160 prisoners single handed by charging at machine gun nests with a Lewis gun. The commanders sent him home to train recruits, which is why he survived, I suppose.
    Grandad brought a small cake and orange squash and Wilf gave me his VC to hold and I read the citation while he told me about it. The medal was a dull brown metal with faults in the casting on the rear face ( unstable bronze alloy from an old cannon).
    I was confused because he had done what sergeant York did TWICE ( except sacrifice himself deliberately , we should not discount that), but no film or, by the nineteen sixties, much public recognition.
    I asked him why he did it, and he said that his mates were getting killed around him by the gunners so when the Lewis gunner fell next to him he picked it up and charged, firing. The gunners took hits and then panicked , so he finished them off and turned their gun on the Austrian trenches. He said he felt absolutely furious and lost any hope of safety, accepted he was good as dead anyway, just wanted revenge and to stop the killing.
    He asked what I wanted to be, so I said RAF pilot ( like Biggles). They went quiet for a moment, then Wilf said '' If they ask for volunteers , never step forward.''
    Grandad said '' Have you got anything else you want to ask Wilf ?'' and I said '' No thank you'' . Wilf said ''He's more interested in't cake!'' And the two of them laughed 'till they cried.
    It was decades later that I looked up the story and understood. Now it is a treasured memory. He was not tall or muscular and was mild mannered and seemed very nice.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  11 місяців тому

      What a brilliant story and memory.
      Thanks so much for sharing.

  • @machendave
    @machendave 9 місяців тому

    A little story, There had been a parade at Chester Castle (Home of the Cheshires) during WWII. As the soldiers were lined up ready to dismiss, the senior NCO on parade marched up to an unassuming member of the Home Guard and asked for permission to dismiss. Of course that man was Thomas Jones VC. The VC gives seniority on parade.

  • @frankmorton1920
    @frankmorton1920 11 місяців тому +1

    Tadger Jones of the 22nd Cheshire Regiment from Runcorn, Cheshire.

  • @ludwigderzanker9767
    @ludwigderzanker9767 10 місяців тому

    I enjoyed as always chap ,it's would be the far better movie 😅 I never heard about it. Not in that perfect perfomance you gave,congrats! I was used to talking and listening to veterans of the Schlacht an der Somme. My great uncle was one of three survivors out of a high school class of 27. This soldiers safed their life as the possibility arrived ...I guess they survived in PoW without any really hardships and they're right yessir! I'm a patriot and liberal but no nationalist and I think, this men simply wanted to survive and they're right ! Which english actor would you take for this Blockbuster? 😮 20 years ago it were Daniel Craig,but just now ? I'm becoming your Fan, you just did it fantastic. God's Blessings from Northern Germany Ludwig.

    • @TheHistoryChap
      @TheHistoryChap  10 місяців тому

      Really appreciate your support and your comments. You should sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thehistorychap.com