William Napier
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William Napier (1828 - June 2nd, 1908) 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.
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[edit] Details
He was about 30 years old, and a sergeant in the 1st Battalion, 13th Regiment (later The Somerset Light Infantry - Prince Albert's), British Army during the Indian Rebellion of 1857-1858 when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC. On 6 April 1858 near Azumgurh, India, Sergeant Napier defended and finally rescued a private of his regiment who was severely wounded. The sergeant stayed with the wounded man at the risk of his own life. Surrounded by sepoys, he bandaged the wound and finally carried the man to safety.
[edit] Further information
- He later achieved the rank of sergeant-Major.
- His wife Elizabeth died 25 April 1862 aged 37 years, and their two children Alfred and Mary Elizabeth died in infancy, all in Victoria, Australia.
- Sergeant-Major Napier died in Rochester, Victoria, Australia on June 2, 1908 at the age of 80 years. He is buried in Bendigo Cemetery, Bendigo, Victoria.
- William owned a cordial factory in Rochester, Victoria.[citation needed]
- He subsequently married Ruth Ann Hirst, a widow with a child named Eliza, who had been married to William Henry Winch, ancestor of Lord John Napier-Winch of Western Australia.[citation needed]
[edit] The medal
His Victoria Cross is displayed at The Somerset Light Infantry Museum (Taunton, Somerset, England).
