Thomas Duffy (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas Duffy
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| Born | 1806 Athlone, County Westmeath |
| Died | 24 December 1868 (aged 63) Dublin |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
Madras Army |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | 1st Madras European Fusiliers |
| Battles/wars | Indian Mutiny |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Thomas Duffy (born in 1806, died in 1868) was a very brave Irish soldier. He was awarded the Victoria Cross, which is the highest and most important award for bravery a soldier can get in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. He was born in a place called Mount Temple (Caulry) near Athlone, in County Westmeath, Ireland.
Who Was Thomas Duffy?
Thomas Duffy was a Private in the 1st Madras European Fusiliers. This was a part of the Indian Army during a big rebellion in India called the Indian Mutiny. He was about 51 years old when he showed amazing bravery.
A Brave Act
On September 26, 1857, in a city called Lucknow, India, something very important happened. A large 24-pounder gun had been used in a fight the day before. It was left in a very dangerous spot, and enemy soldiers were shooting heavily at it. No one could get close to it.
But Private Duffy, along with two other soldiers, decided to try. They bravely went out into the open, even with all the shooting. Duffy managed to tie a rope to the big gun. Because of his quick thinking and courage, they were able to pull the gun away. This stopped the enemy from getting their hands on it.
His bravery was officially recognized. The award for his actions said he showed "cool intrepidity and daring skill." This means he was calm, fearless, and very clever in a dangerous situation.
His Legacy
Thomas Duffy passed away in Dublin, Ireland, on December 24, 1868. He is buried in Glasnevin Cemetery.
His special Victoria Cross medal was put up for sale in 1902. Today, you can see his Victoria Cross on display at the National Army Museum in Chelsea, England. It reminds everyone of his incredible bravery.
