Albert Hill (VC)


Albert Hill VC was an English 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.

Early life

Born in Hulme, Manchester, one of ten children, he was a weak and frail child who after his schooling started work in a mill, before becoming an apprentice planker at Wilson Hat Manufacturers, in Wilton Street, Denton.

First World War

In August 1914 he joined the 10th Battalion, the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, as a private. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions at Delville Wood, part of the Battle of the Somme in 1916. His citation read:
He was also a holder of the French Croix de Guerre, the Russian Cross of St. George, and three campaign medals.

Later Years

In February 1919 he returned to work in Wilson's factory, and married Doris Wilson a year later. They emigrated to the United States in 1923, where he found work as a building labourer, and had three daughters and a son. He attempted to enlist on the outbreak of the Second World War, but was advised to do defence work instead.
He died in Pawtucket, Rhode Island in 1971 and was buried with full military honours in Highland Memorial Park, Johnston, Rhode Island.
Hill Court in Wrexham is named in his honour.

The Medal

His Victoria Cross is displayed in the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum in Caernarfon Castle.