Victoria Cross, 1858 (medal)

From a medal group awarded to Gen Sir Sam Browne for his action on the 31st August 1858, at Seerpore during the Indian Mutiny (1857-1859). In an engagement with the rebels, under Khan Ali Khan, at daybreak on 31st August 1858 at Seerporahm, Capt Browne charged ahead with only a native orderly, at a 9 pdr gun placed to command the approach to the enemy's well chosen position, to prevent it being reloaded and fired upon British soldiers who were coming on with the bayonet. A fight between the officers and gunners ensued in which, after cutting down several of them, he was slashed across the left knee, afterwards receiving another sword-stroke which severed the left arm at the shoulder. His object was fulfilled, the gun being captured by the infantry and the gunners slain.