Second Lieutenant John “Jack” Youll of the 11th Northumberland Fusiliers in Italy and is commemorated by the CWGC at Giavera British Cemetery. 

The Son of Mr. R. W. and Mrs. M. Youll, of "Thorncroft," Thornley, Co. Durham, served in the Royal Engineers Transport Corps as a Sapper, then as a Sapper again in the Royal Engineers. He became Second Lieutenant of the Northumberland Fusiliers and within that commission was awarded the Italian Silver Medal for Valour and later the Victoria Cross before dying in action at the age of 21.

Jack was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions on June 15 south-west of Asiago, Italy. His medal citation, published in the 25 July 1918 edition of the London Gazette, gives the following details:

"For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during enemy attacks when in command of a patrol, which came under hostile barrage. 

"Sending his men back to safety, he remained to observe the situation. Unable subsequently to rejoin his company, Second Lieut. Youll reported to a nieghbouring unit, and when the enemy attacked he maintained his position with several men of different units until the troops on his left had given way and an enemy machine gun had opened fire from behind him. 

"He rushed the gun, and, having killed most of the team, opened fire on the enemy with the captured gun, inflicting heavy casualties. 

"Then, finding that the enemy had gained a footing in a portion of the front line, he organised and carried out with a few men three separate counter-attacks. 

"On each occasion he drove back the enemy, but was unable to maintain his position by reason of reverse fire. 

"Throughout the fighting his complete disregard of personal safety and very gallant leading set a magnificent example to all."

Jack was killed in action on 27 October 1918 during the Battle of Vittorio Veneto, Italy.