Thomas Steele (VC)

Thomas Steele (1840 – 20 June 1900) was a Scottish recipient of the Victoria Cross (VC), the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

Steele was born in Glasgow. He served in the 9th Lancers, British Army, during the Indian Mutiny.

He was 17 years old and a private in the 9th Lancers when, on 8 June 1857 at Delhi, India, Steele performed the action for which he was awarded the VC:

On the 8th of June, 1857, this Private, whilst engaged in the attack on some buildings which were occupied by the Enemy, distinguished himself by his forward gallantry. He was the first to force an entrance into the houses, where he was immediately attacked by two Sepoys, one of whom he cut down, whilst the other he wounded. He then received a bayonet wound in the chest, but, notwithstanding, he fought most gallantly, until he was disabled by a second wound.

Steele was later promoted to the rank of corporal. He died in Hamilton, Lanarkshire, Scotland. His Victoria Cross is held by the Lord Ashcroft VC Collection.