The Frankfurt Trench Incident

This page relates to a First World War Victory Medal awarded to a soldier of the Highland Light Infantry, and the story that emerged through further research linking it to the ‘Frankfurt Trench Incident’ of November 1916.

This small and unassuming group of medals, bars, and ribbons appears at first glance to be nothing more than a mixed collection of unrelated items. However, the presence of a First World War Victory Medal, awarded to Private John Smart of the 16th (Glasgow Boy’s Brigade) Battalion, Highland Light Infantry, reveals something far more remarkable.

Further research links him to the ‘Frankfurt Trench Incident’, a story of determination and bravery that is still considered by some to be one of the most notable last stands of the First World War.

The Capture of Frankfurt Trench

In November 1916, elements of the Highland Light Infantry, alongside troops from the Border Regiment and the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, were engaged in operations against well-defended German positions.

One such position, known as Frankfurt Trench, was successfully taken. However, a fierce counterattack forced a withdrawal, leaving around 130 men isolated behind enemy lines.

Holding the Line

From 18th November, these men, referred to as the ‘defenders’, held their position under almost constant attack, but surrounded and heavily outnumbered, they resisted repeated assaults over several days, sustaining heavy casualties in the process.

After seven days under siege, the German commander issued an ultimatum, that the men should surrender or they would “come over in staggering force”. They refused saying they would fight on to the end.

The Final Assault

The following day, German troops attacked and the defenders were overwhelmed.

Of the roughly 130 men who had held the trench, only 15 remained standing when they were finally captured. It is said that a German Brigadier, upon seeing them, remarked:

“Is this what has held up the brigade for more than a week?”

Aftermath

Private John Smart survived and was taken prisoner of war.

Following the conflict, he was awarded the Military Medal in recognition of his conduct.

This is a clear example of how a single, seemingly ordinary medal can reveal a story of extraordinary courage, one that might otherwise have remained hidden.