Andrew Fitzgibbon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Andrew Fitzgibbon
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Victoria Cross Medal
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| Born | 13 May 1845 Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, India |
| Died | 7 March 1883 (aged 37) Delhi, India |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | British India |
| Service/ |
 British Indian Army |
| Rank | Apothecary |
| Unit | Indian Medical Establishment |
| Battles/wars | Second Opium War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Andrew Fitzgibbon was a brave British soldier. He was awarded the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest award for bravery in the British military. He might have been the youngest person ever to receive this medal.
Who Was Andrew Fitzgibbon?
Andrew Fitzgibbon was born on May 13, 1845, in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, India. He joined the army at a very young age. He worked as a Hospital Apprentice, which meant he helped care for wounded soldiers. He was part of the Indian Medical Establishment, which was like the army's medical team.
A Young Hero in Battle
Andrew was only fifteen years old when he showed incredible bravery. This happened during the Second Opium War, also known as the Third China War. The war involved fighting in China.
Bravery at Taku Forts
On August 21, 1860, a big battle took place at the Taku Forts in China. Andrew Fitzgibbon was with the 67th Regiment. They were fighting very close to the fort, under heavy enemy fire.
Andrew saw a soldier who carried stretchers, called a dhoolie-bearer, get hurt. Even though bullets were flying, Andrew went to help him. He bandaged the man's wound.
Later, as his regiment moved forward, another soldier was wounded. Andrew bravely ran across open ground to reach him. He wanted to help the injured man. While doing this, Andrew himself was badly wounded.
His Legacy
Andrew Fitzgibbon is known as one of the youngest people to ever receive the Victoria Cross. He was just 15 years and 3 months old when he earned it. Another young hero, Thomas Flinn, also received the VC at a similar age. Later, Jack Cornwell received a Victoria Cross when he was 16, after the Battle of Jutland.
Andrew Fitzgibbon continued his service and later became an Apothecary. This was a medical role, similar to a pharmacist or doctor's assistant. He passed away in Delhi, India, on March 7, 1883, at the age of 37. It is believed he was buried with his Victoria Cross medal.
