A Soldier who Changed History?
At our WW1 Exhibition in November 2015 we had visits from pupils of Rainhill High and Tower College. Harry McIntyre, a pupil at Rainhill High, told us of his great-grandfather "who saved the life of the King of Belgium"! No doubt noticing a raised eyebrow or two, Harry decided to return a few days later, not only with his grand-dad (Joe Henderson), but also with certificates, photographs and medals to prove his claim!
It turned out to be a fascinating story and Harry and his grand-dad stayed for several hours happy to show visitors their little piece of history.
Below are a few photographs taken on the day.
It turned out to be a fascinating story and Harry and his grand-dad stayed for several hours happy to show visitors their little piece of history.
Below are a few photographs taken on the day.
The picture above is of Private James Henderson of the Royal Engineers. In 1919 he was on mine clearing duty prior to an event attended by King Albert I of Belgium. With the King travelling behind him, James noticed a mine that had been missed and thus avoided the King being killed.
In 1920 James was awarded the Military Star with Victory Palm by the Kingdom of Belgium.
Harry and Joe with the official certificate signed by the King of Belgium
Translation of the Certificate
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How James saved the King
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Medals awarded to James Henderson