Denis Dempsey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Denis Dempsey
VC
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| Born | 1826 Rathmichael, Bray, County Wicklow |
| Died | 10 January 1896 (aged 69-70) Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
| Buried |
Saint Michael's Cemetery, Toronto
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | 10th Regiment of Foot |
| Battles/wars | Indian Mutiny |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
Denis Dempsey (born 1826, died 1896) was a brave soldier from Ireland. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest and most important award for courage given to soldiers in the British and Commonwealth armies. It's given for amazing bravery when facing the enemy.
Acts of Incredible Bravery
Denis Dempsey was about 31 years old when he showed incredible courage. He was a private in the 10th Regiment of Foot of the British Army. This happened during the Indian Mutiny in India. His brave actions took place on August 12, 1857, and March 14, 1858.
One amazing act happened on March 14, 1858, in Lucknow, India. Denis Dempsey carried a bag of gunpowder through a village that was on fire. He did this to help his army create a path behind the enemy's position. He was under heavy fire from the enemy hiding behind walls with holes for shooting. It was also very dangerous because sparks from the burning houses were flying everywhere.
He also showed great bravery on August 12, 1857. He was the very first soldier to enter the village of Jugdispore. He did this while facing a lot of enemy gunfire. In July 1857, during a retreat from Arrah, Private Dempsey also helped carry an injured officer, Ensign Erskine, to safety.
Life After Bravery
After his time in the army, Denis Dempsey moved to Canada. He passed away in Toronto on January 10, 1896. He is buried in Saint Michael's Cemetery in Toronto.
