Military Wiki
Thomas Grady
File:VCThomasGrady.jpg
Born (1835-09-18)September 18, 1835
Died May 18, 1891(1891-05-18) (aged 55)
Place of birth Claddagh, County Galway
Place of death South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Buried at Melbourne General Cemetery
Allegiance Flag of the United Kingdom United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
Service/branch Flag of the British Army British Army
Years of service 1853 - 1856
Rank Sergeant
Unit 4th Regiment of Foot
Battles/wars Crimean War
Awards Victoria Cross
Distinguished Conduct Medal

Thomas Grady VC DCM (18 September 1835 – 18 May 1891) was born in Claddagh, County Galway and was an Irish 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.

Details[]

He was 19 years old, and a private in the 4th Regiment of Foot (later The King's Own (Royal Lancaster) Regiment), British Army during the Crimean War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 18 October 1854 at Sebastopol, the Crimea, Private Grady volunteered to repair the embrasures of the Sailors' Battery on the Left Attack and carried out this task under very heavy fire from a line of batteries. On 22 November during the repulse of a Russian attack, although severely wounded, Private Grady refused to leave the front and his example encouraged the weak force which was engaging the enemy to maintain their position.

Further information[]

He emigrated to Australia and died in South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 18 May 1891. Grady is buried in Melbourne General Cemetery, Victoria, Australia. Some references incorrectly state he was promoted sergeant. He was discharged as a private, his award was gazetted as a private and his pension was paid as a private.[1]

The medal[]

His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Australian War Memorial (Canberra, Australia).

References[]

  1. W J Quin, Letter to the Editor, The Argus (Melbourne), Friday 20 Jun 1890, page 9, col g

Listed in order of publication year

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