John Malcolmson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Malcolmson
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| Born | 9 February 1835 Inverness, Scotland |
| Died | 14 August 1902 (aged 67) London, England |
| Buried |
Kensal Green Cemetery
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| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
Bengal Army |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | 3rd Bombay Light Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | Anglo-Persian War Indian Mutiny |
| Awards | Victoria Cross Member of the Royal Victorian Order |
John Grant Malcolmson (born February 9, 1835 – died August 14, 1902) was a brave Scottish soldier. He served as an officer in the Bengal Army. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery in the British military. This special medal is given for amazing courage when facing an enemy.
A Heroic Act in Persia
John Malcolmson was 21 years old during the Anglo-Persian War. He was a lieutenant in the 3rd Bombay Light Cavalry. A lieutenant is a junior officer in the army. During a battle in Persia, he showed incredible courage.
On February 8, 1857, at the Battle of Khushab, something amazing happened. Another officer, Lieutenant Arthur Thomas Moore, was leading an attack. His horse fell dead after jumping into an enemy area. This trapped Lieutenant Moore and broke his sword.
Lieutenant Moore managed to free himself. He tried to fight his way through the enemy with his broken sword. He was in great danger and would likely have been hurt or captured.
Lieutenant Malcolmson saw his friend's trouble. He bravely fought his way through the battle to reach Lieutenant Moore. He offered his stirrup, which is a loop for a rider's foot. This allowed Lieutenant Moore to grab on. Malcolmson then carried his friend to safety. For this incredibly brave act, both Lieutenant Malcolmson and Lieutenant Moore received the Victoria Cross.
Later Life and Awards
The year after his brave act, John Malcolmson took part in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. This was a major uprising in India. He later became a Captain. He also served in the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms. This is a special group that protects the British monarch.
Just before he passed away, King Edward VII honored him. Malcolmson was given the award of Member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO). He received this award at Buckingham Palace on August 11, 1902.
John Malcolmson died suddenly in London on August 14, 1902. His Victoria Cross medal is now kept at the National Army Museum in Chelsea, England.
See also
- List of Scottish Victoria Cross recipients
