John Murray (Irish soldier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Murray
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| Born | 1837 Birr, County Offaly |
| Died | 7 November 1911 (aged 73–74) Derrinlogh, County Offaly |
| Buried |
Eglish Churchyard, County Offaly
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| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Years of service | 1852–1873 |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit | 68th (Durham) Regiment of Foot (Light Infantry) |
| Battles/wars | Crimean War New Zealand Wars |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
John Murray (born February 1837 – died 7 November 1911) was a brave soldier from Ireland who served in the British Army. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery a soldier can get in the British and Commonwealth forces.
Early Life
John Murray was born in a place called Birr, County Offaly in Ireland, in February 1837.
A Heroic Act: The Victoria Cross
John Murray was about 27 years old when he showed incredible bravery. He was a sergeant in the 68th (Durham) Regiment of Foot (Light Infantry). This happened during a conflict called the Waikato-Hauhau Maori War in New Zealand.
His brave act took place on 21 June 1864, in a battle at Tauranga. This is why he was given the Victoria Cross:
For his amazing courage during the fight at Tauranga on June 21st. When the enemy's position was being attacked, he ran towards a small trench (called a Rifle Pit). This trench had about eight to ten enemy soldiers inside. Without any help, he fought them all, either killing or wounding every one. He then continued to fight his way through the enemy's defenses, still using his bayonet (a knife attached to a rifle) with great determination.
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Later Life and Legacy
John Murray passed away in Derrinlogh, County Offaly, on 7 November 1911.
His Victoria Cross medal is now on display. You can see it at the Durham Light Infantry Museum & Durham Art Gallery in Durham, England. It serves as a reminder of his extraordinary bravery.
