John Smith (sergeant)

John Smith (February 1814 – 26 June 1864) 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. Born in Derbyshire in the United Kingdom, Smith enlisted in the army of the East India Company at the age of 23. Posted to India in 1839, Smith served through various campaigns, earning the Victoria Cross in 1857 at the Siege of Delhi. Smith died from dysentery in 1864.

Life and career

Smith was born in Ashby Road, Ticknall, Derbyshire, in February 1814.^[1] After working as a cordwainer like his father and uncle,^[2] Smith enlisted with the private army of the East India Company in London on 3 October 1837.^[3] Following his training at the East India Company's depot in Chatham, Smith embarked for India.^[2] Arriving on 2 August 1839 Smith was posted to the Bengal Sappers and Miners, subsequently arriving at the headquarters in Delhi^[3] then joining the 3rd Company of the Bengal Sappers and Miners.^[2] Smith was promoted to Sergeant in 1840.^[3]

Smith, then with the 5th Company of the Bengal Sappers and Miners in November 1841, served in a force under Brigadier Wild, taking part in the advance on

Smith was posted in 1851 to work with the Superintending Engineer of the Punjab, in the Department of Public Works, as an Acting Assistant Overseer attached to the Mian Mir Division, eventually becoming an Assistant Overseer in 1854.[3] Smith was ordered to return to his regiment in 1856, and due to an error in the carrying out of this order Smith was mistakenly posted, at a reduced rank of Gunner, to the 3rd Company of the 4th Battalion of Bengal Artillery.^[3] Smith successfully protested against the order, leading to its rescinding and Smith being sent back to the Bengal Sappers and Miners at his former rank of Sergeant.^[3] Smith remained at the depot in Rurki until the outbreak of the

Smith was 43 years old, and a

For conspicuous gallantry, in conjunction with Lieutenants Home and Salkeld, in the performance of the desperate duty of blowing in the Cashmere Gate of the fortress of Delhi in broad daylight, under a heavy and destructive fire of musketry, on the morning of 14 September 1857, preparatory to the assault.

(General Order of

Major-General Sir Archdale Wilson

, Bart., K.C.B., dated "Head Quarters, Delhi City, September 21, 1857.")

[4]

Later career

Smith spent 1858 engaged in operations in Oudh and was awarded the

A memorial plaque commemorating Smith was placed on the wall of Ticknall Village Hall in 2014.[1]

References

External links

• Find A Grave entry for John Smith.