| James Thompson | |
|---|---|
| 1829 - 5 December 1891 | |
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| Place of birth | Yoxall, Staffordshire |
| Place of death | Walsall, England |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/branch |  British Army |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit | 60th Rifles |
| Battles/wars | Indian Mutiny |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
(William) James Thompson VC (Yoxall 1829 - Walsall 5 December 1891) was an English recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.
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Details
He was about 27 years old, and a private in the 1st Battalion, 60th Rifles (King's Royal Rifle Corps), British Army during the Indian Mutiny when the following deed took place.
On 9 July 1857 at Lucknow, India, Private Thompson saved the life of his commanding officer, Captain Wilton, by dashing forward to his relief when that officer was surrounded by a number of the enemy. The private killed two of the assailants before further assistance arrived.
Private Thompson was also commended for conspicuous gallantry throughout the siege and he was elected by the regiment to be awarded the Victoria Cross.
The medal
His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Royal Green Jackets Museum (Winchester, England).
References
- Ian Beach
- Monuments to Courage (David Harvey, 1999)
- The Register of the Victoria Cross (This England, 1997)
- The Evolution Of The Victoria Cross (MJ Crook 1975)
External links
- Location of grave and VC medal (Staffordshire)
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