James Pearson (soldier)
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For other persons of the same name, see James Pearson.
James Pearson (born Rathdowney, Queens County (Laois) 2 October 1822- died India January 23, 1900) was an Irish 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 35 years old, and a private in the 86th Regiment of Foot (later The Royal Irish Rifles), British Army during the Indian Mutiny when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.
On 3 April 1858 at Jhansi, India, Private Pearson was wounded in an attack on a number of Indian rebels; he killed one of them, and bayoneting two others. He also took another wounded private to Calpee under heavy fire, but the private died soon after of his wounds.
