Mountainview Battlefields Association

02/06/2026

02/06/2026

Remembering Jack Cornwell VC: Boy Hero of Jutland

John Travers Cornwell VC who passed away on 2nd June 1916, is remembered as one of the youngest and most courageous heroes of the First World War. At just 16 years old, he was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, Britain’s highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy.

Born in Leyton, Essex, into a working-class family, Cornwell left school at 14 and later worked as a delivery boy. In 1915, he enlisted in the Royal Navy without his father’s permission, training as a gun layer before joining HMS Chester in early 1916.

Cornwell’s bravery became legendary during the Battle of Jutland on 31st May 1916. While serving his gun amid intense enemy fire, his position was hit repeatedly, killing or mortally wounding the rest of his crew. Despite suffering severe injuries himself, Cornwell remained at his post for over 15 minutes, standing alone and awaiting orders until the ship withdrew from action.

After the battle, he was found still at his station, gravely wounded but composed. He was taken to hospital but died two days later, before his mother could reach him.

In recognition of his extraordinary courage and devotion to duty, Cornwell was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously. His story quickly became a symbol of youthful heroism and sacrifice, and he remains one of the youngest recipients of the award.

This iconic image of Jack Cornwell was used by the press at the time of his death. It is nowadays thought to show a younger brother.

Lest we forget

28/05/2026

No winners once again this week, our prize fund has now increased to £140 for next Thursday's live draw.

If you would like to take part, get in touch!

Only £2.00 per entry.

If you're not in, you can't win 💰💰💰

28/05/2026

All welcome.

26/05/2026

On 26th May 1940, Operation Dynamo began—the evacuation of Allied forces from Dunkirk during the early stages of the Second World War.

Over nine days, under constant air and artillery attack, a remarkable rescue effort unfolded. What had initially been expected to save only around 30,000 troops instead succeeded in evacuating more than 338,000 British and Allied soldiers from the beaches and harbour.

The operation relied on a vast and improvised fleet—over 800 vessels, including Royal Navy ships alongside hundreds of civilian boats, later known as the “Little Ships of Dunkirk,” which crossed the English Channel to aid in the rescue.

Though the evacuation was a strategic retreat—leaving behind large quantities of equipment and resulting in heavy casualties—it preserved the core of Britain’s army, allowing it to continue the fight. Dunkirk would come to symbolise resilience, courage, and unity in the face of overwhelming odds.

Lest We Forget

26/05/2026

The officers and members of Mountainview Battlefields Association are delighted to extend our warmest congratulations to our member/friend Ian and his fiancée Chloe as they are due to be married today.

We wish them joy, good health and many wonderful moments together ❤️🥂

24/05/2026

Today we remember Private John Condon, Royal Irish Regiment on the anniversary of his passing.

Regardless of debates surrounding his age, he paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Lest We Forget

23/05/2026

Lest We Forget

Loyalist Ulster 23 💙