John Smith (private) explained

John Smith
Birth Date:c. 1822
Death Date:6 May 1866 (aged 43-44)
Birth Place:London, England
Death Place:Tanjore, British India
Placeofburial:Taujore Cemetery, Trichinopoly
Serviceyears:1822–1861
Rank:Private
Branch:Madras Army
Unit:1st Madras European Fusiliers
Battles:Indian Mutiny
Awards:Victoria Cross

Private John Smith 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.

He was born in London about 1822 and enlisted in the 1st Madras European Fusiliers in 1841. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for action on 16 November 1857 at the Siege of Lucknow. His citation read:

Smith was discharged on pension in 1861 and died on 6 May 1866 at Tanjore, India.

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