John Watson (VC)

General Sir John Watson VC, GCB (6 September 1829 – 23 January 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. An officer serving with the Bengal Army, Watson received his Victoria Cross for actions at Lucknow during the Indian Mutiny. He later rose to the rank of general in the British Indian Army.

Early life

Watson was born on 6 September 1829 in Chigwell, Essex. at the age of 19, Watson traveled to London seeking to join the army of the British East India Company. Joining the Bengal Army as an officer was initially he was sent to Madras. This offered little prospect of action, however. and Watson sought transfer to Bombay.

His first combat action came in December 1848 during the Second Anglo-Sikh War when Watson took part in the Siege of Multan, while serving with the 1st Bombay European Fusiliers. Shortly afterwards he took part in the Battle of Gujrat.

Victoria Cross details

Watson was 28 years old, and a lieutenant in the 1st Punjab Cavalry, Bengal Army during the Indian Mutiny when the following deed took place on 14 November 1857 at Lucknow,......
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