Among the many collections available at 7th Town Historical Society are the Victoria Cross archives — a collection of fact sheets describing the hero-recipients of the Victoria Cross. 7th Town is proud to possess the only copy of the collection in Canada (read more about the collection).
Croak’s entry in the Victoria Cross archive
As we near the 100th anniversary of the end of the Great War, we thought we’d share some of the facts on file about Pte John Bernard Croak of Quebec Regiment, a native of Newfoundland (at the time a Dominion). He is one of 73 Canadian WWI recipients of the medal. Here is the official citation:
No. 445312 Pte. John Bernard Croak, late Quebec R. Date of deed 8.8.18
For most conspicuous bravery in attack when having become separated from his section he encountered a machine-gun nest, which he bombed and silenced, taking the gun and crew prisoners. Shortly afterwards he was severely wounded, but refused to desist. Having rejoined his platoon, a very stron point, containing several machine guns, was encountered. Private Croak, however, seeing an opportunity, dashed forward alone and was almost immediately followed by the remainder of the platoon in a brilliant charge. He was the first to arrive at the trench line, into which he led his men, capturing three machine-guns, and bayonetting or capturing the entire garrison. The perseverance and valour of this gallant soldier, who was again severely wounded, and died of his wounds, were an inspiring example to all.
Private Croak was only 26 when he succumbed to his wounds and is buried at Hangard Wood British Cemetery, Somme, France