Henry Hartigan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Henry Hartigan
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | March 1826 Drumlea, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh |
| Died | 29 October 1886 (aged 60) Calcutta, British India |
| Buried |
Barrackpore New Cemetery
|
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | 9th Lancers |
| Battles/wars | Crimean War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Henry Hartigan was an incredibly brave soldier from Ireland. He was awarded the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest and most respected award for bravery in the face of danger for British and Commonwealth soldiers. Henry was born in March 1826 in Drumlea, a place near Enniskillen in County Fermanagh. He passed away on October 29, 1886, at the age of 60, in Calcutta, British India.
Contents
What is the Victoria Cross?
The Victoria Cross is the highest award given for extreme bravery to members of the British armed forces. It is given for acts of incredible courage when facing the enemy. This medal is very special and shows that the person who received it acted with outstanding bravery and selflessness.
Henry Hartigan's Acts of Bravery
Henry Hartigan was about 31 years old when he showed amazing courage during the Indian Mutiny in 1857. At that time, he was a retired sergeant from the 9th Lancers, a famous British Army unit. He earned the Victoria Cross for two separate acts of bravery.
Bravery at Budle-ke Serai
On June 8, 1857, during the Battle of Budle-ke Serai near Delhi, Henry Hartigan showed incredible bravery. A fellow soldier, Sergeant H. Helstone, was wounded and surrounded by enemy fighters. Without thinking of his own safety, Henry rushed to help him. He risked his life to carry the wounded sergeant to safety, away from the battle.
Courage at Agra
A few months later, on October 10, 1857, Henry Hartigan again proved his courage in Agra. He saw Sergeant Crews being attacked by four rebels. Even though Henry was unarmed, he ran to help. He bravely grabbed a sword (called a tulwar) from one of the attackers with his right hand. With his other hand, he hit the attacker in the mouth, disarming him. Henry then defended himself against the other three rebels. He managed to kill one and wound two others. During this heroic act, he was severely wounded himself, which meant he could no longer serve in the military.
Later Life
After his incredible acts of bravery, Henry Hartigan later achieved the rank of lieutenant. He lived for many more years after receiving his Victoria Cross. He passed away in Calcutta, India, on October 29, 1886. His bravery continues to be remembered as an example of true heroism.
