John Murray (VC)

John Murray (February 1837 – 7 November 1911) was British Army soldier and an Irish recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

Early life

Murray was born in Birr, County Offaly, in February 1837.

Victoria Cross

He was approximately 27 years old, and a sergeant in the 68th (Durham) Regiment of Foot (Light Infantry) during the Waikato-Hauhau Maori War in New Zealand when the following deed took place on 21 June 1864 at Tauranga for which he was awarded the VC:

For his distinguished conduct during the engagement at Tauranga, on the 21st of June, when the Enemy's position was being stormed, in running up to a Rifle Pit containing from eight to ten of the enemy, and, without any assistance, killing or wounding every one of them. He is stated to have afterwards proceeded up the works, fighting desperately, and still continuing to bayonet the Enemy.

Further information

Murray died at Derrinlogh in County Offaly on 7 November 1911.

The medal

His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Durham Light Infantry Museum & Durham Art Gallery in Durham, England.