Blue Plaque: Edward Brooks VC

16 Windsor Street, Headington, Oxford

In 2017, a blue plaque was unveiled at 16 Windsor Street in Headington, Oxford, to honor the remarkable bravery of Company Sergeant Major Edward Brooks, who was awarded the Victoria Cross during World War I. (oxfordmail.co.uk)

Born in Oakley, Buckinghamshire, on April 11, 1883, Edward Brooks joined the Grenadier Guards at the age of 18. After his service, he married Elizabeth Barker in 1905 and later moved to Headington, where he worked as a builder. (headington.org.uk)

In October 1914, Brooks enlisted in the 2/4th Battalion of the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry. By July 1916, he had risen to the rank of Company Sergeant Major. On April 28, 1917, during a raid on enemy trenches in Fayet, France, Brooks displayed exceptional courage by single-handedly capturing a German machine gun, an act that significantly contributed to the success of the operation. (headington.org.uk)

Following his heroic actions, Brooks was awarded the Victoria Cross by King George V on July 18, 1917. Upon his return to Oxford, he received a hero's welcome, with thousands lining the streets to honor him. (oxfordmail.co.uk)

After the war, Brooks continued to live in Headington, working at the Morris Motors factory in Cowley. He passed away on June 26, 1944, and is buried in Rose Hill Cemetery. (headington.org.uk)

The blue plaque at 16 Windsor Street serves as a lasting tribute to Edward Brooks's bravery and his significant contributions during World War I.