John Augustus Conolly facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Augustus Conolly
|
|
|---|---|
Depiction of the Siege of Sebastopol
|
|
| Born | 30 May 1829 Celbridge, County Kildare |
| Died | 23 December 1888 (aged 59) Curragh, County Kildare |
| Buried |
Mount Jerome Cemetery, Dublin
|
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Lieutenant Colonel |
| Unit | 49th Regiment of Foot Coldstream Guards |
| Battles/wars | Crimean War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
John Augustus Conolly (born May 30, 1829 – died December 23, 1888) was a brave Irish soldier. He earned the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy. This special medal is given to soldiers from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. John Conolly was born in Celbridge, County Kildare, Ireland. He became a Lieutenant Colonel in the army.
Contents
John Conolly's Early Life and School
John Conolly was one of the younger sons of Edward Michael Conolly. His father was a Member of Parliament (MP), which means he was a person elected to make laws for the country. John's mother was Catherine Jane. He was born in Ireland but went to school in England at King Edward's School, Birmingham.
Earning the Victoria Cross Medal
John Conolly was 25 years old when he showed great bravery. He was a lieutenant in the 49th Regiment of Foot of the British Army. This happened during the Crimean War.
A Brave Act at Sevastopol
On October 26, 1854, a big battle happened at Sebastopol in the Crimea. Russian soldiers attacked, but the British soldiers fought them off. Lieutenant Conolly led his men from the 49th Regiment as they chased the enemy away.
He was incredibly brave during this fight. He kept fighting even when he was surrounded by several Russian soldiers. He was defending his position when he was badly wounded. For his amazing courage, he was given the Victoria Cross.
Later Years and Legacy
After his heroic actions, John Conolly continued his military career. He eventually reached the rank of lieutenant colonel. He passed away in Curragh, County Kildare, on December 23, 1888. He was buried in Mount Jerome Cemetery.
Family Life
John Conolly married Ida Charlotte. They had several children together. His son, John Richard Arthur Conolly, also became a Member of Parliament, but in Western Australia.
Where to See His Medal
John Conolly's special Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at the Guards Museum in London.
