Henry William Pitcher

Henry William Pitcher VC (1841-5 July 1875) 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 about 22 years old, and a lieutenant in the 4th Punjab Infantry, Indian Army during the Umbeyla Campaign when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 30 October 1863 in North-West India, Lieutenant Pitcher led a party to recapture the Crag Picquet after its garrison had been driven in by the enemy and 60 of them killed. He led the party up the narrow path to the last rock until he was knocked down and stunned by a large stone thrown from above. On 16 November the lieutenant displayed great courage in leading a party to the Crag Picquet when it had again fallen into enemy hands. He led the first charge, but was wounded in the action. See also George Vincent Fosbery

Further information

He was the 2nd son of Vincent Pitcher and Rose Mary le Geyt, daughter of Admiral George le Geyt and was born on the 20th December 1840 at Kamptee in India. His elder brother Colonel Duncan George Pitcher also served in India. He later achieved the rank of Captain and was killed, while part of the 1st Punjab Infantry, on 5 July 1875 at Dehra Ghazi Khan.