Albert Jacka | |
---|---|
Nickname(s) | Bert |
Born | Winchelsea, Victoria | 10 January 1893
Died | 17 January 1932 St. Kilda, Victoria | (aged 39)
Allegiance | Australia |
Service | Australian Imperial Force |
Years of service | 1914–1920 |
Rank | Captain |
Unit | 14th Battalion |
Battles / wars | |
Awards | Victoria Cross Military Cross & Bar |
Other work | Mayor of the City of St Kilda (1930–1931) |
Albert Jacka, VC, MC & Bar (10 January 1893 – 17 January 1932) was an Australian recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest decoration for gallantry "in the face of the enemy" that can be awarded to members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces. Jacka was the first Australian to be decorated with the VC during the First World War, receiving the medal for his actions during the Gallipoli Campaign. He later served on the Western Front and was twice more decorated for his bravery.
After the war, Jacka returned to Australia and entered business, establishing the electrical goods importing and exporting business Roxburgh, Jacka & Co. Pty Ltd. He was later elected to the local council, becoming mayor of the City of St Kilda. Jacka never fully recovered from the wounds he sustained during his war service, and died aged 39.