James Blair (VC)

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This article is about the 19th century British Army Officer. For the founder of the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, please see James Blair (clergyman)

James Blair (VC, CB) (January 27, 1828 – January 18, 1905) was a Scottish 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 29 years old, and a captain in the 2nd Bombay Light Cavalry, Indian Army during the Indian Mutiny when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 12 August 1857 at Neemuch, India, Captain Blair volunteered to apprehend seven or eight armed mutineers who had shut themselves up in a house. He burst open the door and after a fierce encounter during which he was severely wounded, the rebels escaped through the roof. In spite of his wounds he pursued, but was unable to catch them. On 23 October at Jeerum, the captain fought his way through a body of rebels who had surrounded him. In the action he broke his sword and was wounded, but nevertheless he led his men in a charge on the rebels and dispersed them.

He later achieved the rank of General.