James Huffam

Who was James Huffam?

Major James Palmer Huffam VC 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.

He was 21 years old, and a second lieutenant in the 5th Battalion, The Duke of Wellington's Regiment, British Army, attd, 2nd Battalion during the First World War. On 31 August 1918 at St. Servin's Farm, France, he performed a deed for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

Second Lieutenant Huffam with three men rushed an enemy machine-gun post and put it out of action. His position was then heavily attacked and he withdrew, carrying back a wounded comrade. Again in the night, accompanied by two men only he rushed an enemy machine-gun, capturing eight prisoners and enabling the advance to continue.

After World War I he remained in the army and was for a time seconded to the Royal Air Force as a Flying Officer. He served in the Second World War and achieved the rank of major.

His medal is privately owned and not publicly displayed.