John Carroll (1891 - 1971)was an Australian 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

Carrol was born on 16 August 1891 in Brisbane, Queensland.

Military service

He was 24 years old, and a Private in the 33rd (New South Wales) Battalion, Australian Imperial Force during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 7-12 June 1917 at St. Yves , Belgium, during an attack, Private Carroll rushed the enemy's trench and bayoneted four of the occupants. He then noticed a comrade in difficulties and went to his assistance, killing another of the enemy. Next he attacked single-handed a machine-pun team, killing three of them and capturing the gun. Later two of his comrades were buried by a shell and in spite of heavy shelling and machine-gun fire, he managed to rescue them.

He later achieved the rank of Lance-Corporal.

He is burried in Karrakatta Cemetery, Perth, Western Australia. His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.

This page has been migrated from the Victoria Cross Reference with permission.