James Miller

James Miller VC (13 March 1890 – 31 July 1916) 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.

Biography

Miller was born on 13 March 1890 in Hoghton, Lancashire. He worked at a paper mill until the outbreak of the First World War when, in September 1914, he joined the army. He went to France in July 1915 with the King's Own (Royal Lancaster) Regiment and saw action that autumn at the Battle of Loos. His battalion then took part in the Battle of the Somme from early July 1916.

Miller was a 26 years old private in the 7th Battalion, The King's Own (Royal Lancaster) Regiment during the First World War when the following deed took place on 30/31 July 1916 at Bazentin-le-Petit, France for which he was awarded the VC:

Miller is buried in Dartmoor Cemetery, Bécordel-Bécourt, France. In 1917 a memorial to him was erected in Withnell churchyard, his family's local church, in the town where he worked as a paper mill worker. It was funded by public subscription. In 2024 the memorial was given Grade II listed status.

His Victoria Cross is displayed at The King's Own Royal (Lancaster) Regiment Museum, Lancaster, England.