John Augustus Conolly

Lieutenant Colonel John Augustus Conolly VC was an Irish officer in the British Army who served during the mid-19th century. Born in Celbridge, County Kildare, Ireland, he is most distinguished for his heroic actions during the Crimean War.

On October 26, 1854, during the Siege of Sebastopol in the Crimea, Conolly was serving as a twenty-five-year-old lieutenant in the 49th Regiment of Foot. When a Russian attack was repulsed, Conolly led a pursuit of the retreating enemy. His gallant behavior was highly conspicuous as he defended his post, ultimately falling dangerously wounded during a personal encounter with several Russian soldiers.

For his conspicuous gallantry in this action, Conolly was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy in the British and Commonwealth forces. His Victoria Cross is currently preserved and on display at the Guards Museum in London.