engraved 'Major Heneage VIII Hussars'

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Clement Walker Heneage, VC was a brave and courageous British Army officer who was awarded the Victoria Cross for his outstanding bravery during the Indian Mutiny. He was born on 6 March 1831 and died on 9 December 1901, leaving behind an inspiring legacy of bravery and selflessness.

Heneage was born in Kent, England, and was educated at Eton before joining the British Army in 1849 as an ensign in the 8th (The King's Royal Irish) Hussars. He served in various campaigns throughout his military career, including the Crimean War, the Indian Mutiny, and the Second Anglo-Afghan War.

During the Indian Mutiny, Heneage was serving as a lieutenant in the 2nd Bengal European Fusiliers when he performed the acts of bravery that earned him the Victoria Cross. On 1 July 1857, Heneage was part of a small group of soldiers who were besieged in a building by mutineers in Delhi. The mutineers set fire to the building, and Heneage helped to carry his wounded comrades to safety despite being severely burned himself.

Heneage's bravery did not end there. On 9 July 1857, he was part of a small force that was ambushed by mutineers near the village of Badli-ki-Serai. Heneage led a charge against the mutineers, despite being severely outnumbered, and managed to drive them back. His bravery and leadership in this battle earned him a Mention in Despatches.

Heneage's next major engagement came during the Second Anglo-Afghan War, where he served as a captain in the 9th Lancers. He was part of the British force that captured Kabul in September 1879, and he played a key role in the Battle of Charasiab on 6 October 1879. Heneage led a charge against the Afghan forces, which helped to secure victory for the British.

For his outstanding bravery throughout his military career, Heneage was awarded several prestigious awards and medals, including the Victoria Cross, the Mention in Despatches, and the Afghan War Medal. Heneage's Victoria Cross is now on display at the National Army Museum in London, where it serves as a testament to his bravery and dedication to duty.

In conclusion, Clement Walker Heneage, VC was an exceptional soldier who demonstrated unwavering courage and bravery throughout his military career. His acts of heroism during the Indian Mutiny and the Second Anglo-Afghan War earned him the Victoria Cross, one of the highest honors that can be bestowed upon a British soldier. Heneage's legacy of bravery and selflessness continues to inspire future generations of soldiers and civilians alike.