John Crimmin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Crimmin
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| Born | 19 March 1859 Kilballyowen, Bruff, County Limerick |
| Died | 20 February 1945 (aged 85) Wells, Somerset |
| Buried |
Wells Cemetery, Somerset
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
Indian Army |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Unit | Bombay Medical Service, Indian Army |
| Battles/wars | Karen-Ni Expedition, Burma |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
Colonel John Crimmin VC CB CIE VD (born March 19, 1859 – died February 20, 1945) was an Irish doctor and soldier. He is famous for receiving the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award given for bravery to soldiers in the British and Commonwealth forces. He also served as an honorary doctor to the King.
A Heroic Doctor
John Crimmin was a Surgeon in the Bombay Medical Service, which was part of the Indian Army. He was 29 years old when he showed incredible bravery during the Karen-Ni Expedition, Burma. This event led to him receiving the Victoria Cross.
Earning the Victoria Cross
On January 1, 1889, near a place called Lwekaw in Burma (now Myanmar), a battle was happening. A lieutenant and four soldiers bravely charged towards a large group of enemy fighters. During this charge, two soldiers were hurt.
A Daring Rescue
Surgeon John Crimmin quickly went to help one of the wounded soldiers. He did this even though enemy fire was all around him. After helping the injured man, he joined the other soldiers in the firing line. He helped them push the enemy out of small groups of trees where they were hiding.
Later, while Surgeon Crimmin was helping another wounded soldier, several enemy fighters suddenly rushed at him. Without hesitation, he used his sword to fight them. He thrust his sword through one enemy and attacked a second. A third enemy fell because of a shot from a sepoy (an Indian soldier). The rest of the enemy fighters then ran away. His actions saved lives and helped his unit.
Later Life and Achievements
After these brave acts, John Crimmin continued his service. He eventually reached the high rank of Colonel. He served in the Indian Medical Service for many years. For his dedicated service, he was given another important award in 1901. He was appointed a Companion of the Order of the Indian Empire (CIE).
Colonel John Crimmin passed away on February 20, 1945, at Woodward House in Wells, Somerset. He was 85 years old.
