Samuel Browne VC

Date of birth: 
3rd October 1824
Died: 
14th March 1901
Allegiance: 
British
Service: 
Punjab Irregular Force, Honourable East India Company Forces
Rank: 
Brevet Major
Unit: 
2nd Regiment Punjab Cavalry
Awards: 
VC, GCB, KCSI
Campaigns: 
Indian Mutiny
VC Awarded: 
31st August 1858
Awarded posthumously: 
No

Citation

For having at Seerporah, in an engagement with the Rebel Forces under Khan Allie Khan, on the 31st of August, 1858, whilst advancing upon the Enemy’s position, at day break, pushed on with one orderly Sowar upon a nine-pounder gun that was commanding one of the approaches to the enemy’s position, and attacked the gunners, thereby preventing them from re-loading, and firing upon the Infantry, who were advancing to the attack. In doing this, a personal conflict ensued, in which Captain, now Lieutenant-Colonel, Samuel James Browne, Commandant of the 2nd Punjab Cavalry, received a severe sword-cut wound on the left knee, and shortly afterwards another swordcut wound, which severed the left arm at the shoulder, not, however, before Lieutenant-Colonel Browne had succeeded in cutting down one of his assailants. The gun was prevented from being re-loaded, and was eventually captured by the Infantry, and the gunner slain.

Further Information

Samuel Browne lost his arm and a s a result invented the Sam Browne belt worn by officers across their chests rather than over each shoulder.

Grave Restoration

Victoria Cross Trust
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