Lieutenant John Watson was awarded the Victoria Cross for his brave action on 14 November 1857, during the Indian Mutiny (1857–1859). In command of a squadron of 1st Punjab Cavalry he set off in pursuit of the mutineers. He was well ahead of his squadron when he was suddenly confronted by some rebels. To avoid starting a general retreat, he charged at the commanding officer of the rebel cavalry. They engaged in fierce hand-to-hand fighting during which Watson received several serious wounds. His squadron, assisted by the 2nd Punjab Cavalry under Lieutenant Dighton Probyn, eventually reached him and successfully routed the enemy force.