James Joseph Magennis

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Irish recipient of the Victoria Cross

James Joseph Magennis (27 October 1919 – 12 February 1986) was an Irish Royal Navy sailor and a recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

Early life

James Joseph Magennis was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, on 27 October 1919. He joined the Royal Navy in 1935 at the age of 16.

Military career

Magennis served in the Royal Navy Submarine Service during World War II. He was a diver on the midget submarine HMS XE3. On 31 July 1945, during an operation in the Pacific Theatre, Magennis and his crew were tasked with sinking the Japanese cruiser Takao in the Johore Strait.

Magennis exited the submarine to attach limpet mines to the hull of the cruiser. Despite facing significant challenges, including strong currents and the risk of detection, he successfully placed the mines. His actions were instrumental in the success of the mission, and for his bravery, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

Later life

After the war, Magennis left the Royal Navy in 1949. He struggled with civilian life and faced financial difficulties. He passed away on 12 February 1986 in Halifax, West Yorkshire, England.

Legacy

Magennis is remembered as a hero in both Northern Ireland and the wider United Kingdom. A memorial to him stands in Belfast, and his Victoria Cross is displayed at the Imperial War Museum in London.

Related pages

• Victoria Cross
• Royal Navy
• World War II
• Belfast
• Royal Navy Submarine Service

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