Mathew Hughes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Matthew Hughes
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Depiction of the Siege of Sebastopol
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| Born | 1822 Bradford, West Riding of Yorkshire |
| Died | 9 January 1882 (aged 59) Bradford |
| Buried |
Undercliffe Cemetery, Bradford
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit | 7th Regiment of Foot |
| Battles/wars | Crimean War |
| Awards |  Victoria Cross |
Matthew Hughes (1822 – 9 January 1882) was an English soldier. He earned the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery. This special medal is given to soldiers who show amazing courage against the enemy. It is awarded to forces from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries.
Matthew Hughes was about 33 years old when he showed incredible bravery. He was a Private in the 7th Regiment of Foot. This unit is now known as The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. His brave actions happened during the Crimean War. Because of what he did, he was recommended for the Victoria Cross.
His award was officially announced on February 24, 1857. This was in the London Gazette, a very old and important newspaper. The announcement said that Queen Victoria wanted to give the Victoria Cross to many brave soldiers. Matthew Hughes was one of them.
Matthew Hughes: A Brave Soldier
Private Matthew Hughes was part of the 7th Royal Fusiliers. On June 7, 1855, he was noticed by Colonel Campbell. This was during a fierce battle called the storming of the Quarries. Matthew Hughes bravely went to get ammunition not once, but twice. He did this while under heavy enemy fire. He had to cross open ground, which was very dangerous.
Acts of Courage
Matthew Hughes also went to the front lines during the battle. He rescued Private John Hampton, who was badly wounded. Hughes brought him back to safety.
Later, on June 18, 1855, he showed even more courage. He volunteered to rescue Lieutenant Hobson, also from the 7th Royal Fusiliers. Lieutenant Hobson was severely wounded and needed help. As Matthew Hughes was trying to bring him in, he himself was badly wounded.
His Military Rank
After these brave acts, Matthew Hughes was promoted to sergeant in the same year. He later changed rank again.
The Victoria Cross Medal
Matthew Hughes's Victoria Cross medal is a very important piece of history. You can see it on display today. It is kept at the Tower of London. The medal is part of the Royal Fusiliers Museum collection.
