John Daykins

Who was John Daykins?

John Brunton Daykins VC MM was a Scottish 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.

Daykins was 35 years old, and an acting sergeant in the 2/4th Battalion, The York and Lancaster Regiment, British Army during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 20 October 1918 at Solesmes, France, Sergeant Daykins, with 12 remaining men of his platoon, rushed a machine-gun and during subsequent severe hand-to-hand fighting he himself disposed of many of the enemy and secured his objective. He then located another machine-gun which was holding up an operation of his company. Under heavy fire he worked his way alone to the post and shortly afterwards returned with 25 prisoners and an enemy machine-gun, which he mounted at his post. His magnificent fighting spirit and example inspired his men, saved many casualties and contributed largely to the success of the attack.

His Victoria Cross is displayed at the York and Lancaster Regimental Museum, Rotherham, England.