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Joseph Petrus Hendrik Crowe facts for kids

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Joseph Petrus Hendrik Crowe
Joseph Crowe, VC.jpg
Born 12 January 1826
Uitenhage, Cape Colony
Died 12 April 1876 (aged 50)
Penge, Surrey
Buried
MOTH Garden of Remembrance, Uitenhage, South Africa
Allegiance  United Kingdom
Service/branch Flag of the British Army.svg British Army
Rank Lieutenant colonel
Unit 78th Regiment of Foot
10th Regiment of Foot
Battles/wars Indian Mutiny
Awards Victoria Cross

Lieutenant colonel Joseph Petrus Hendrik Crowe VC (12 January 1826 – 12 April 1876) was a very brave soldier. He was born in South Africa and was the second person from there to receive the Victoria Cross. This award is the highest honor for courage given to soldiers in the British and Commonwealth forces. It's given for amazing bravery when facing the enemy.

A Daring Act of Bravery

Joseph Crowe was a lieutenant in the 78th Regiment of Foot, part of the British Army. He was 31 years old when he showed incredible courage. This happened during a big conflict called the Indian Mutiny in 1857.

The Battle at Boursekee Chowkee

On August 12, 1857, Joseph Crowe's unit faced a tough challenge. The enemy had taken over a strong position called a redoubt. This redoubt was causing many problems for the soldiers. The British decided to attack it directly.

Leading the Charge

The soldiers, known as Highlanders, rushed forward. Lieutenant Crowe was the very first one to enter the enemy's position. His men followed right behind him. In less than a minute, they captured the redoubt. This brave act helped his unit win the battle.

His Later Life and Burial

Joseph Crowe continued his military career. On October 23, 1875, he was promoted to lieutenant colonel. He was in charge of the 1st Battalion of Foot.

His Death and Reburial

Joseph Crowe was planning to return home to South Africa in 1876. Sadly, he caught a cold while hunting in Ireland. He passed away on April 12, 1876, in Penge, Surrey. He was first buried in a simple grave in the West Norwood Cemetery.

Many years later, in 1957, his grave was found. It had become overgrown. In August 1976, his remains were carefully moved. A special ceremony was held on February 5, 1977. His casket was carried on a gun carriage. He was reburied in the MOTH Garden of Remembrance in Uitenhage, South Africa. This was a fitting tribute to a very brave soldier.

His Lost Medal

After Joseph Crowe's death, his medals were inherited by his eldest sister, Maria Margaret Lister. Another sister, Dorothya Susanna Lovemore, received his sword. Sadly, his medals were lost forever when his sister's home was destroyed by fire. The sword, however, has remained in the Lovemore family.

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