Charles Irwin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Irwin
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| Born | 1824 Manorhamilton, County Leitrim |
| Died | 8 April 1873 (aged 48–49) Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh |
| Buried |
Saint Mark's Churchyard, Magheraveely
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Private |
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| Battles/wars | |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Charles Irwin (born in 1824 – died 1873) was a brave Irish soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for courage in battle given to soldiers from Britain and Commonwealth countries. He was born in Manorhamilton, County Leitrim, Ireland.
Contents
A Hero's Award: The Victoria Cross
The Victoria Cross (VC) is the most important award for bravery in the British military. It is given to soldiers who show amazing courage when facing the enemy. Charles Irwin earned this special medal during a conflict called the Indian Mutiny.
Charles Irwin's Act of Bravery
Charles Irwin was about 33 years old when he showed incredible bravery. He was a private in the 53rd Regiment of Foot (later known as The King's Shropshire Light Infantry). This brave act happened on November 16, 1857, during the Relief of Lucknow.
During a fierce attack on a place called the Secundra Bagh in Lucknow, Private Irwin was severely wounded. He was shot in his right shoulder. Even with this serious injury, he kept going. He was one of the very first soldiers from his regiment to enter the buildings. This was especially brave because there was a lot of enemy fire. His fellow soldiers chose him for this award because of his outstanding courage.
His Military Journey
Charles Irwin served in a few different army groups during his time as a soldier. These included:
- 18th Regiment of Foot
- The 53rd Shropshire Regiment
- 87th Regiment of Foot
He was part of important historical events, including the Second Anglo-Burmese War and the Indian Mutiny.
Where He is Buried
Charles Irwin passed away on April 8, 1873. He was buried in Saint Mark's Churchyard, which is near Magheraveely in County Fermanagh, Ireland.
His Medal Today
If you want to see Charles Irwin's Victoria Cross, you can find it on display. It is kept at The King's Shropshire Light Infantry Museum.
