Michael Sleavon
Irish soldier (c. 1826 – 1902); recipient of the Victoria Cross

Michael Sleavon VC (c. 1826 – 15 August 1902) was an Irish recipient of the Victoria Cross.
Details
Michael Sleavon was born in Magheraculmoney, County Fermanagh. At the age of 31, he was a corporal in the Corps of Royal Engineers during the Indian Mutiny. On 3 April 1858 at Jhansi, India, his actions led to the award of the Victoria Cross:
For determined bravery at the attack of the Fort of Jhansi, on the 3rd of April, 1858, in maintaining his position at the head of a sap, and continuing the work under a heavy fire, with a cool and steady determination worthy of the highest praise.
Further information
He died in Dromard, Kesh, County Fermanagh on 15 August 1902 and was buried in Bannagh Roman Catholic Churchyard, Tubrid.
References
The Register of the Victoria Cross (1981, 1988 and 1997)
Clarke, Brian D. H. (1986). "A register of awards to Irish-born officers and men". The Irish Sword. XVI (64): 185–287.
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