John Lucas (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Lucas
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| Born | 1826 Bagenalstown, Ireland |
| Died | 4 March 1892 (aged 65–66) Dublin, Ireland |
| Buried |
St. James' Churchyard
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| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Rank | Sergeant Major |
| Unit | 40th (2nd Somersetshire) Regiment of Foot |
| Battles/wars | New Zealand Wars
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| Awards | Victoria Cross |
John Lucas (1826 – 4 March 1892) was a brave soldier in the British Army. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for courage. This special medal is given to soldiers who show amazing bravery in battle. John Lucas was the very first person from his army group, the 40th Foot, to earn this honor.
Contents
Early Life of John Lucas
John Lucas was born in 1826. His hometown was Clashganny, near Bagenalstown in County Carlow, Ireland.
Earning the Victoria Cross
In 1861, John Lucas was about 35 years old. He was a colour sergeant in the 40th (2nd Somersetshire) Regiment of Foot. This army group was part of the British Army.
Bravery in Battle
On March 18, 1861, Colour-Sergeant Lucas was part of a small group of soldiers. They were fighting near the Huirangi Bush in New Zealand. Suddenly, heavy gunfire came from the bush. Three soldiers were hurt at the same time. Two of them were badly injured.
Help was called to carry the wounded soldiers away. Another soldier was sent, but he also fell. An officer, Lieutenant Rees, was wounded too. John Lucas quickly ran to help Lieutenant Rees. He did this even though bullets were flying very close.
Lucas then made sure the officer was sent to safety. He also took charge of the weapons from the injured and fallen soldiers. He held his position bravely until more soldiers arrived to help.
The New Zealand Wars
This brave act happened during the First Taranaki War. This war was part of the larger New Zealand Wars. These conflicts were about land in New Zealand.
In December 1860, British forces were trying to capture a strong Māori defense line. This line was called Te Arei. The day John Lucas showed his bravery, March 18, 1861, was the last day of fighting before a peace agreement was made.
Later Life and Honors
After his brave actions, John Lucas was promoted. He became a sergeant-major. He received his Victoria Cross medal on October 2, 1862. Lieutenant-General Duncan Cameron presented him with the award. The ceremony took place at Ellerslie Racecourse in Auckland, New Zealand.
John Lucas passed away in Dublin, Ireland, on February 29, 1892. He was buried in St. James churchyard in Dublin.
See also
- List of New Zealand Wars Victoria Cross recipients
