British Heritage
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Patrick Mullane
Honouring the Badge of Bravery in British Heritage.
The courage and selflessness demonstrated by individuals in the face of danger have contributed immeasurably to British heritage. One such individual is Patrick Mullane VC, whose heroic deeds in the British Army have cemented his place in the annals of history. As a recipient of the prestigious Victoria Cross and a man of remarkable honour, Mullane’s contribution to the British heritage spans his gallant actions, unwavering duty, and heart-warming humanity.
Patrick Mullane was born in October 1858 in Ahmednagar, Deccan, India, the offspring of Marguerite and Private Patrick Mullane of the Royal Artillery. Born to a military family, Mullane's journey into the ranks of valiant warriors was, in a way, predestined.
At about 21 years of age, Mullane served as a sergeant in the Royal Horse Artillery during the Second Anglo-Afghan War. His gallantry shone brightly during the battle of Maiwand on 27th July 1880, where his selfless deed earned him the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration awarded for valour "in the face of the enemy" to members of the British and Commonwealth forces.
During the intense battle, with the enemy within striking distance, Mullane risked his life to save Driver Pickwell Istead. Despite his heroic effort, Istead tragically passed away shortly after. Yet, this did not deter Mullane from his path of duty and courage. He again braved the dangers during the retreat to procure water for the wounded, venturing into a hostile village where many soldiers had lost their lives.
The medal, symbolising Mullane's bravery, has an intriguing story of its own. It was scheduled for auction by the Sotheby's auction house in London in 1904, having previously been sold by Mullane's relatives. However, the auction was halted when Mullane, having been abroad and unaware of the sale, arrived at Sotheby's visibly distressed. Notifying the then-owner, Captain Buckingham, the auctioneer, Tom Hodge, facilitated the return of the precious Cross to a tearful Mullane, an act that Hodge described as the "most chivalrous act" in his experience.
Patrick Mullane later achieved the rank of regimental sergeant-major, but his heroism on the battlefield is what truly defines his contribution to British heritage. His courageous endeavours, encapsulated by the Victoria Cross, stand testament to an unwavering commitment to duty and an indomitable spirit in the face of danger. His life and deeds have become woven into the rich fabric of Britain's history and continue to inspire future generations of soldiers and civilians alike.
Moreover, the return of his Victoria Cross reaffirmed the respect and honour that British society holds for its heroes. The episode at the auction house was not merely an isolated act of chivalry but a reflection of the British values of honour, respect, and admiration for those who have served the nation with exceptional courage.
Patrick Mullane passed away on 20 November 1919, but his legacy lives on. As we remember his contributions, we are reminded of the strength of human spirit and the profound impact individual acts of bravery can have on a nation's heritage. Mullane's story is more than just a tale of military heroism; it is a cornerstone of British history, an inspiring narrative of valour, and a timeless testament to the ethos of service before self.
A Soldier’s Genesis
Patrick Mullane was born in October 1858 in Ahmednagar, Deccan, India, the offspring of Marguerite and Private Patrick Mullane of the Royal Artillery. Born to a military family, Mullane's journey into the ranks of valiant warriors was, in a way, predestined.
The Victoria Cross: Gallantry Personified
At about 21 years of age, Mullane served as a sergeant in the Royal Horse Artillery during the Second Anglo-Afghan War. His gallantry shone brightly during the battle of Maiwand on 27th July 1880, where his selfless deed earned him the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration awarded for valour "in the face of the enemy" to members of the British and Commonwealth forces.
During the intense battle, with the enemy within striking distance, Mullane risked his life to save Driver Pickwell Istead. Despite his heroic effort, Istead tragically passed away shortly after. Yet, this did not deter Mullane from his path of duty and courage. He again braved the dangers during the retreat to procure water for the wounded, venturing into a hostile village where many soldiers had lost their lives.
The Lost and Found Medal: An Act of Chivalry
The medal, symbolising Mullane's bravery, has an intriguing story of its own. It was scheduled for auction by the Sotheby's auction house in London in 1904, having previously been sold by Mullane's relatives. However, the auction was halted when Mullane, having been abroad and unaware of the sale, arrived at Sotheby's visibly distressed. Notifying the then-owner, Captain Buckingham, the auctioneer, Tom Hodge, facilitated the return of the precious Cross to a tearful Mullane, an act that Hodge described as the "most chivalrous act" in his experience.
A Legacy Engraved in British Heritage
Patrick Mullane later achieved the rank of regimental sergeant-major, but his heroism on the battlefield is what truly defines his contribution to British heritage. His courageous endeavours, encapsulated by the Victoria Cross, stand testament to an unwavering commitment to duty and an indomitable spirit in the face of danger. His life and deeds have become woven into the rich fabric of Britain's history and continue to inspire future generations of soldiers and civilians alike.
Moreover, the return of his Victoria Cross reaffirmed the respect and honour that British society holds for its heroes. The episode at the auction house was not merely an isolated act of chivalry but a reflection of the British values of honour, respect, and admiration for those who have served the nation with exceptional courage.
Patrick Mullane passed away on 20 November 1919, but his legacy lives on. As we remember his contributions, we are reminded of the strength of human spirit and the profound impact individual acts of bravery can have on a nation's heritage. Mullane's story is more than just a tale of military heroism; it is a cornerstone of British history, an inspiring narrative of valour, and a timeless testament to the ethos of service before self.
- Patrick Mullaneen.wikipedia.org
