Thomas Byrne
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- For other people named Thomas Byrne, see Thomas Byrne (disambiguation)
Thomas Byrne, (December 1866 - 15 March 1944) was born in the cross, Donaghmore. He Was an Irish recipient of the Victoria Cross (VC), 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 approximately 17 years old, and a private in the 21st Lancers (Empress of India's), British Army during the Sudan Campaign when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC:
On 2 September 1898 at the Battle of Omdurman, Sudan, Private Byrne turned back in the middle of the charge of the 21st Lancers and went to the assistance of a lieutenant of the Royal Horse Guards who was wounded, dismounted, disarmed and being attacked by several Dervishes. Private Byrne already wounded, attacked these Dervishes, received a second severe wound and by his gallant conduct enabled the officer to escape.
[edit] Further information
He died at Canterbury, Kent, 15 March 1944. Grave/memorial at West Gate Cemetery, Canterbury, England. R.C. Section MJ. Grave 22. Headstone.
See also "Byrnesy", Thom Byrne and Byrne(s). Central Midfielder and Captain of Lennons FC.
[edit] References
Listed in order of publication year
- The Register of the Victoria Cross (1981, 1988 and 1997)
- The Irish Sword (Brian Clarke 1986)
- Irelands VCs (Dept of Economic Development 1995)
- Monuments to Courage (David Harvey, 1999)
- Irish Winners of the Victoria Cross (Richard Doherty & David Truesdale, 2000)
[edit] External links
- Location of grave and VC medal (Kent)
- Thomas Byrne at Find-A-Grave
