Jack Cornwall and Remembrance Sunday

John ("Jack") Travers Cornwall was born in 1900 in Leyton.

In 1915 he enlisted in the Royal Navy.

After completing his basic training he joined HMS Chester.

On May 31 1916 HMS Chester took part in the Battle of Jutland where it came under heavy fire.

Several crew members were killed, but Jack remained in post, standing with shards of steel penetrating his chest until he was found by medics who boarded the ship after it withdrew.

Jack was transferred to Grimsby General Hospital where he died shortly before 08:00am on June 2 1916 , before his mother could arrive.

Jack was initially buried in a common grave in Manor Park Cemetery but on July 29 1916 his body was exhumed and he was buried with full military honours in the same cemetery.

The British Admiralty recommended Jack for a posthumous Victoria Cross  which was endorsed by King George V.

The Victoria Cross is the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. Jack is the third youngest person ever to be awarded it.

This morning local officers spent the two minutes silence in reflection at Jack Cornwell's grave.

We Owe Them Everything.