World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. He received the award for his actions at Amiens, France on August 8, 1918, for which he was wounded and died there as a result at the age of 26. Born in Little Bay, Newfoundland, Canada, and moved to Nova Scotia at the age of two. He worked as a coal miner prior to joining the Canadian Army in August 1915 during World War I and served as a private in the 13th Battalion (Royal Highlanders of Canada) in the Canadian Expeditionary Force that was sent to France. His Victoria Cross citation reads: "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 strong 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." His Victoria Cross is on display at the Army Museum in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. He received the award for his actions at Amiens, France on August 8, 1918, for which he was wounded and died there as a result at the age of 26. Born in Little Bay, Newfoundland, Canada, and moved to Nova Scotia at the age of two. He worked as a coal miner prior to joining the Canadian Army in August 1915 during World War I and served as a private in the 13th Battalion (Royal Highlanders of Canada) in the Canadian Expeditionary Force that was sent to France. His Victoria Cross citation reads: "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 strong 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." His Victoria Cross is on display at the Army Museum in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Bio by: William Bjornstad
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