Patrick Roddy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Patrick Roddy
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| Born | 17 March 1827 Elphin, County Roscommon |
| Died | 21 November 1895 (aged 68) Jersey, Channel Islands |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
Bengal Army British Indian Army |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Battles/wars | Second Anglo-Sikh War Indian Mutiny Abyssinian War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Colonel Patrick Roddy VC (17 March 1827 – 21 November 1895) was a very brave soldier from Ireland. He received the Victoria Cross. This is the highest award for courage in the face of the enemy. It is given to soldiers from Britain and Commonwealth countries.
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Patrick Roddy's Amazing Bravery
Patrick Roddy was 31 years old when he earned his Victoria Cross. He was an ensign (a junior officer) in the Bengal Army. This was during the Indian Mutiny (also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857). He showed incredible bravery during a battle.
A Daring Act of Courage
On September 27, 1858, Lieutenant Patrick Roddy faced a dangerous situation. He was fighting against rebels. One rebel soldier was armed with a musket (a type of gun). This rebel was so fierce that even cavalry (soldiers on horseback) were afraid to get close. Each time they tried, the rebel would kneel and aim his gun.
But Lieutenant Roddy was not scared. He bravely rode straight towards the rebel. When he was only about six yards away, the rebel fired his musket. The shot hit and killed Lieutenant Roddy's horse.
Facing Danger Head-On
Lieutenant Roddy was stuck under his dead horse. Before he could get free, the rebel tried to attack him with a sword. Roddy quickly grabbed the rebel to stop him. He managed to get his own sword. Then, he bravely fought back and defeated the rebel.
It turned out the rebel was a subadar (a high-ranking soldier) from the 8th Native Infantry. He was a very strong and determined fighter. Lieutenant Roddy's actions that day showed incredible courage and quick thinking.
Later Life and Service
After this brave act, Patrick Roddy continued his military career. He fought in other important conflicts. These included the Abyssinian War and the Second Anglo-Afghan War. He rose through the ranks and eventually became a colonel.
Colonel Patrick Roddy passed away on November 21, 1895. He died in Jersey, which is one of the Channel Islands. His bravery and service are still remembered.
