John Watson (VC)

General Sir John Watson VC, GCB (1829-1919) was an English recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

Details

He was 28 years old, and a lieutenant in the 1st Punjab Cavalry, Indian Army during the Indian Mutiny when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 14 November 1857 at Lucknow, India, Lieutenant Watson, with his own squadron and that under another lieutenant, came upon a body of rebel cavalry. The ressaidar in command of them, with about half-a-dozen, rode out and confronted Lieutenant Watson and in the fierce fighting which ensued the lieutenant received several disabling blows and cuts from tulwars. He continued to defend himself, however, until his own men joined in the melee and utterly routed the enemy.

ee also

6th Duke of Connaught's Own Lancers (Watson's Horse)

Further information

Later Sir John Watson. He later achieved the rank of General.

References

*Monuments to Courage (David Harvey, 1999)
*The Register of the Victoria Cross (This England, 1997)

External links

* [http://www.homeusers.prestel.co.uk/stewart/berkshir.htm Location of grave and VC medal] "(Berkshire)"
* [http://www.homeusers.prestel.co.uk/stewart/aaauctio.htm VC medal auction details]