Victoria Cross: Boyes, Pride and Seeley

DUNCAN GORDON BOYES

Midshipman, Royal Navy; HMS Euryalus

Born: 5 November 1846, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Died: 26 January 1869, Dunedin, New Zealand


THOMAS PRIDE

Captain of the After Guard, Royal Navy; HMS Euryalus

Born: 29 March 1835, Oldbridge, Wareham, Dorset
Died: 16 July 1893, Parkstone, Dorset

Joint Citation: For the conspicuous gallantry which, according to the testimony of Captain Alexander, C.B., at that time Flag Captain to Vice-Admiral Sir Augustus Kuper, K.C.B., Mr. Boyes displayed on the occasion of the capture of the enemy's stockade [at Shimonoseki, Japan, on 6 September 1864]. He carried a Colour with the leading Company, kept it in advance of all, in the face of the thickest fire, his Colour-Serjeants having fallen, one mortally, the other dangerously, wounded; and he was only detained from proceeding yet further by the orders of his superior Officer. The Colour he carried was six times pierced by musket balls.
Thomas Pride, Captain of the After-guard, the survivor of the two Colour-Serjeants who supported Mr. Boyes in the gallant rush which he made in advance of the attack, is also recommended for the Victoria Cross for his conduct on this occasion.

(London Gazette Issue 22960 dated 21 Apr 1865, published 21 Apr 1865.)


WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON SEELEY

Ordinary Seaman, Royal Navy; HMS Euryalus

Born: 1 May 1840, Topsham, Maine, USA
Died: 1 October 1914, Dedham, Massachusetts, USA

Citation: For the intelligence and daring which, according to the testimony of Lieutenant Edwards, Commanding the Third Company, he exhibited in ascertaining the enemy's position [at Shimonoseki, Japan, on 6 September 1864], and for continuing to retain his position in front, during the advance, after he had been wounded in the arm.

(London Gazette Issue 22960 dated 21 Apr 1865, published 21 Apr 1865.)


Note: Ordinary Seaman Seeley was the first American to be awarded the Victoria Cross.