Rank:

Private

Unit:

3rd Bombay European Regiment, Bengal Army

Awarded on:

October 21st, 1859

"For gallantly volunteering on the 3rd of April, 1858, in the attack of Jhansi, to return and carry away several killed and wounded, which he did twice under a very heavy fire from the wall; also, for devoted bravery at the Assault of Lohari on the 2nd of May, 1858, in rushing to the rescue of Lieutenant Doune, of the Regiment, who was dangerously wounded. In this service, Private Whirlpool received seventeen desperate wounds, one of which nearly severed his head from his body. The gallant example shown by this man is considered to have greatly contributed to the success of the day."

The presentation of Whirlpool's medal, on 20 June 1861, was the first public presentation in Australia of a Victoria Cross. The medal was presented to him by Lady Barkly, the wife of Sir Henry Barkly, the governor of Victoria at that time.