Send me a message

Amid the chaos of the British defeat at Isandlwana on January 22, 1879, 22-year-old Private Samuel Wassall of the 80th Regiment displayed extraordinary bravery. 

As the Zulu warriors overran the British camp, Wassall, already escaping on horseback, spotted a fellow soldier struggling in the raging Buffalo River, desperately trying to flee the massacre. 

Without hesitation, Wassall turned back, dismounted under enemy fire, and pulled his comrade from the torrent, placing him on his horse before swimming to safety himself. 

For his selfless act of courage, he was awarded the Victoria Cross, the only recipient from the disastrous battle.

More of my podcasts about the Anglo Zulu War 1879

The Battle of Isandlwana

Saving the Queen's Colour - the Epic Ride of Coghill & Melvill

Prisoner of the Zulus

Support the show by:

Becoming a Patron

Buy me a Coffee

Support the show