William George Cubitt facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William George Cubitt
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| Born | 19 October 1835 Calcutta, British India |
| Died | 25 June 1903 (aged 67) Eastfield, North Yorkshire, England |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
Bengal Army British Indian Army |
| Years of service | 1853–1892 |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Battles/wars | Santhal rebellion Indian Mutiny Second Anglo-Afghan War Akha Expedition Third Anglo-Burmese War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross Distinguished Service Order Mentioned in Despatches (2) |
| Relations | Sir James Hills-Johnes VC (brother-in-law) Lewis Pugh Evans VC (nephew) |
William George Cubitt (born October 19, 1835 – died January 25, 1903) was a brave officer in the British Indian Army. He received the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest award for courage in battle. This special medal is given to soldiers from Britain and Commonwealth countries. He also earned the Distinguished Service Order (DSO).
Contents
Becoming a Soldier: William Cubitt's Early Career
William Cubitt was born in Calcutta, which was part of British India at the time. His father was also an officer in the British Indian Army. William went to school in England.
After finishing his education, he joined the Indian Army. He became an ensign in the 13th Bengal Native Infantry on July 26, 1853. This was the start of his long military journey.
What Was the Indian Mutiny?
When William Cubitt was 21 years old, he was a lieutenant in the 13th Bengal Native Infantry. A big event called the Indian Mutiny happened in 1857. This was a major uprising against British rule in India.
During this time, William Cubitt showed incredible bravery. He was involved in the siege of Lucknow, a very important battle.
Cubitt's Heroic Act at Lucknow
On June 30, 1857, during a difficult retreat from a place called Chinhut, Lieutenant Cubitt risked his own life. He saved three soldiers from the 32nd Regiment. This act of courage earned him the Victoria Cross.
The Victoria Cross is given for "gallantry in the face of the enemy." It means someone showed extreme bravery when facing danger.
William Cubitt's Later Military Service
After the Indian Mutiny, William Cubitt continued to serve in the Indian Army. He was part of several important military campaigns.
Serving in Different Wars
In 1880, he was with the Khyber line force during the Second Anglo-Afghan War. This war was fought in Afghanistan. He was promoted to colonel in July 1883.
He then served in the Akha Expedition in 1883–84. Later, he fought in the Third Anglo-Burmese War from 1886 to 1887. For his service in this war, he received the Distinguished Service Order (DSO). This medal is given for excellent service in the military.
Retirement and Legacy
William Cubitt retired from the army in 1892. At that time, he was in charge of the 43rd Gurkhas. This unit later became known as the 8th Gurkha Rifles.
His medals, including his Victoria Cross and Distinguished Service Order, are very important. You can see them on display in the Lord Ashcroft Gallery at the Imperial War Museum in London.
William Cubitt's Personal Life
In 1863, William Cubitt married Charlotte Isabella Hills. Her brother was Lieutenant-General Sir James Hills-Johnes, who also received the Victoria Cross. William and Charlotte had three sons and two daughters.
After he retired from the army, William Cubitt lived in Camberley, Surrey, England. He passed away on January 25, 1903, at the age of 67. He was buried in St. Peter's Churchyard in Frimley, Surrey.
