Alexander Wright (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alexander Wright
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Depiction of the Siege of Sebastopol
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| Born | 1826 Ballymena, County Antrim, Ireland |
| Died | 28 July 1858 (aged 31–32) Calcutta, India |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | 77th (East Middlesex) Regiment of Foot |
| Battles/wars | Crimean War Indian Mutiny |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Alexander Wright was a brave soldier in the British Army. He was born in 1826 in Ballymena, which is now part of Northern Ireland. He is famous for receiving the Victoria Cross (VC). This medal is the highest award given to soldiers in the British and Commonwealth forces for showing amazing courage during a battle.
Contents
Who Was Alexander Wright?
Alexander Wright was a Private in the 77th (East Middlesex) Regiment of Foot. This regiment later became known as The Middlesex Regiment (Duke of Cambridge's Own). He fought in two important wars: the Crimean War and the Indian Mutiny.
Bravery in the Crimean War
Alexander Wright was about 29 years old when he showed great bravery during the Crimean War. This war took place in the 1850s.
The Siege of Sebastopol
One of the most important events where Private Wright showed his courage was during the Siege of Sebastopol. This siege happened in the Crimean Peninsula.
- On 22 March 1855, Private Wright helped stop an enemy attack called a "sortie." A sortie is when soldiers suddenly rush out from a defended position to attack the enemy.
- Later, on 19 April, he was very brave when his unit took control of some "Russian Rifle Pits." These were small trenches or holes where enemy soldiers could hide and shoot.
- Private Wright not only fought well but also encouraged his fellow soldiers. He kept their spirits up even when they were under heavy enemy fire.
- During this action, he was wounded, but he kept fighting.
- He continued to show great courage throughout the war, especially on 30 August 1855.
Later Life and Legacy
After the Crimean War, Private Wright's regiment was sent to help with the Indian Rebellion of 1857. This was a major uprising in India.
Sadly, Alexander Wright was killed in action on 28 July 1858. He died during intense fighting in Calcutta, India. His body was never found, so he does not have a known grave.
It is not clear if Alexander Wright ever received his Victoria Cross medal in person. His regiment was already in India when the medals were being given out.
Today, his Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment (Queen's and Royal Hampshires) Museum. This museum is located inside Dover Castle in England.
