Arthur Thomas Moore

What does it take to lead with courage through some of the British Empire's most challenging campaigns? How does a lifetime of distinguished service earn both the Victoria Cross and one of Britain's highest orders of chivalry? The story of Lieutenant General Sir Arthur Thomas Moore VC CB is one of exceptional gallantry, steadfast leadership, and decades of devoted military service. From the battlefields of India during the Indian Rebellion to the highest ranks of the British Army, Moore's career exemplified bravery, professionalism, and dedication to duty.

Born on 26 July 1830 in Derry, Ireland, Arthur Thomas Moore was commissioned into the 2nd Bengal European Fusiliers of the Honourable East India Company's Army. He first saw active service during the campaigns recognised by the India General Service Medal 1854, before taking part in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, one of the most significant conflicts in British military history.

Moore's greatest act of heroism came during the Relief of Lucknow on 25 September 1857. Amid fierce fighting and determined resistance, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire while leading his men and carrying out his duties with remarkable courage and composure. His conspicuous gallantry during the action earned him the Victoria Cross, with the award announced in the London Gazette on 24 December 1858, recognising his outstanding bravery in the face of the enemy.

His distinguished military career continued long after the Indian Rebellion. In recognition of his exceptional service and leadership, Moore was appointed a Companion of the Order of the Bath, one of Britain's most prestigious honours for senior military officers. His active service was further recognised by the India General Service Medal 1854 and the Indian Mutiny Medal, reflecting his participation in major campaigns in India. As one of the senior surviving recipients of the Victoria Cross, he also received the King Edward VII Coronation Medal in 1902, marking the coronation of the new monarch and recognising his distinguished status.

Arthur Thomas Moore rose through the ranks to become a Lieutenant General, earning widespread respect for both his battlefield courage and his leadership throughout a long and distinguished military career. He passed away on 7 December 1913, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire military historians and admirers of the Victoria Cross. His remarkable combination of gallantry, leadership, and lifelong service ensures that Lieutenant General Sir Arthur Thomas Moore VC CB remains one of the most distinguished soldiers of the Victorian era.

The official citation for the award appeared in The London Gazette on 3 August 1860 (Issue 22409, page 2860), published jointly for both officers: "On the occasion of an attack on the enemy on the 8th of February, 1857, led by Lieutenant-Colonel Forbes, C.B., Lieutenant Moore, the Adjutant of the Regiment, was, perhaps, the first of all by a horse's length. His horse leaped into the square, and instantly fell dead, crushing down his rider, and breaking his sword as he fell amid the broken ranks of the enemy. Lieutenant Moore speedily extricated himself, and attempted with his broken sword to force his way through the press; but he would assuredly have lost his life, had not the gallant young Lieutenant Malcolmson, observing his peril, fought his way to his dismounted comrade through a crowd of enemies to his rescue, and, giving him his stirrup, safely carried him through everything out of the throng. The thoughtfulness for others, cool determination, devoted courage, and ready activity shewn in extreme danger by this young Officer, Lieutenant Malcolmson, appear to have been most admirable, and to be worthy of the highest honour."