John Grey (British Army officer, died 1856) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir John Grey
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|---|---|
| Born | 1782 |
| Died | 19 February 1856 |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1814–1854 |
| Rank | Lieutenant-General |
| Commands held | Bombay Army |
| Awards | Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath |
Lieutenant-General Sir John Grey was an important officer in the British Army and the forces of the East India Company. He was born in 1782 and passed away on February 19, 1856. Sir John Grey held a very high position as the Commander-in-chief of the Bombay Army in India from 1850 to 1852.
Contents
Sir John Grey's Military Journey
Starting His Army Career
John Grey was born in 1782 in Northumberland, England. He came from a well-known family. He joined the army when he was just 16 years old, becoming an ensign in the 75th Foot regiment on January 18, 1798. He quickly moved up the ranks, becoming a lieutenant in 1799.
Fighting in India and Europe
Sir John Grey served with his regiment in India. He fought in the war against Tipu Sahib, a powerful ruler. He was part of the battle of Malavelly and the successful attack on Seringapatam. For his bravery at Seringapatam, he was given a special medal.
Later, he became a captain and then a major. He joined the 5th Foot regiment and served in the Peninsula War in Europe. This was a big war where British forces fought against Napoleon's army. Sir John Grey was involved in important battles like El Bodon and the siege of Ciudad Rodrigo. During the attack on Ciudad Rodrigo, he was wounded twice but kept fighting bravely. He also fought at Fuenteguinaldo. For his service in the Peninsula War, he received another medal.
Rising Through the Ranks
In 1812, John Grey became a lieutenant-colonel. After some years, he was promoted to major-general in 1838. He was then given a major command in Bengal, India, which he held from 1840 to 1845.
The Gwalior Campaign
One of his most famous achievements was during the Gwalior campaign in India. On December 29, 1843, he led a part of the army and defeated a large force of 12,000 Mahratta soldiers at a place called Punniar. This happened on the same day that the main Mahratta army was defeated by another British general, Hugh Gough, 1st Viscount Gough, at Maharajpore. For his important victory at Punniar, Sir John Grey was honored and made a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath. This is a very special award.
Commander of the Bombay Army
From 1850 to 1852, Sir John Grey held a very high position as the Commander-in-Chief of the Bombay Army. He was also a member of the council in Bombay. He continued to be promoted, becoming a lieutenant-general in 1851 and a full general in 1855.
Sir John Grey passed away at his home, Morwick Hall, on February 19, 1856.
Sir John Grey's Family Life
Sir John Grey married Rosa Louisa in 1830. She was the only daughter of Captain Sturt of the Royal Navy. They did not have any children. His older brother had passed away before him, so when Sir John Grey died, his family line from Morwick Hall came to an end.
