Joseph Prosser facts for kids

Joseph Prosser (born 1828, died 10 June 1867) was a brave Irish soldier. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for courage given to soldiers in the British and Commonwealth armies.

A Brave Soldier

Joseph Prosser was born in a place called Moneygall in Ireland. When he was about 27 years old, he was a private in the British Army. He served in the 2nd Battalion of the 1st Regiment, which later became known as The Royal Scots.

He fought in the Crimean War. This was a big war that happened from 1853 to 1856.

Acts of Courage

Joseph Prosser showed amazing bravery during the war. On 16 June 1855, in a place called Sevastopol in Crimea, he was on duty in the trenches. Trenches are long, narrow ditches where soldiers hide and fight.

While he was there, he saw a soldier trying to run away to the enemy side. Joseph Prosser chased after him and caught him. He did this even though enemy bullets were flying all around him.

Later, on 11 August, he showed courage again. He left his trench, which was very close to the enemy. He went to help a soldier from another regiment who was badly hurt and couldn't move. Joseph Prosser carried the wounded soldier to safety. He did this while the enemy was shooting heavily at him.

For these incredibly brave actions, Joseph Prosser was given the Victoria Cross.

His Legacy

Memorial plaque in Anfield Cemetery

Joseph Prosser passed away on 10 June 1867 in Liverpool, England. He was buried in Anfield Cemetery. For many years, his grave did not have a headstone. It was just a simple, unmarked spot.

However, in 1995, a special headstone was put up. This stone helps people remember his bravery and where he is buried.

Today, Joseph Prosser's Victoria Cross medal is kept by the Royal Scots Museum. This museum is located inside Edinburgh Castle in Scotland. It helps to tell the story of brave soldiers like Joseph Prosser.