George Lambert (VC)

He led a fierce bayonet charge to break a defended position.

George Lambert was born at Markethill, County Armagh, in December 1819. He enlisted in the 84th Regimentof Foot and spent much of his Army career in India, rising to sergeant-major.

During the 1857 uprising he served in Havelock's force. His Victoria Cross recognised bravery at three engagements: Oonao on 29 July, Bithoor on 16 August, and the advance through Lucknow to the Residency on 25 September. At Bithoor he helped drive defenders from a strong position with the bayonet. He was seriously wounded at Lucknow but survived to continue his service.

Lambert received a commission as ensign in December 1857 and subsequently became a lieutenant and adjutant. Returning to Britain with the regiment in 1859, he was stationed at Hillsborough Barracks, Sheffield. On 10 February 1860 he collapsed on parade and died from an aortic aneurysm. He was 40 and was buried with military honours in Wardsend Cemetery.

Victoria Cross citation: For distinguished conduct, at Onao, on the 29th of July; at Bithoor, on the 16th of August; and at Lucknow, on the 25th of September. (Extract from Field Force Orders of the late Major-General Havelock, dated 17th October, 1857.)

The London Gazette of 18 June 1858, Numb. 22154, p. 2957