John Simpson (VC)

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Photo by Terry Macdonald

John Simpson (Edinburgh 29 January 1826 - 27 October 1884) 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.

Simpson, 32 years old, was a quartermaster-sergeant in the 42nd Regiment of the British Army, later the Black Watch (Royal Highlanders), during the Indian Mutiny of April 15, 1858. During the attack on Fort Ruhya, India, Simpson volunteered to go to an exposed point within 40 yards of the parapet of the fort under heavy fire and carried back a lieutenant and a private, both of whom were seriously wounded.

He later achieved the rank of major. His grave and memorial are at Balbeggie Churchyard, St. Martin's, near Perth, Scotland. His medal is on display at the County Museum of Natural History, Los Angeles, CA, USA.