Private Donohue was born in Ballintemple, Cavan, Ireland.  He served during the Indian Rebellion of 1857-58 and it is shown in the 1909 Regimental annual that he is a surviving pensioner.   

He was awarded the medal with clasp Central India which is awarded to soldiers involved in the operations in Jhansi, Kalpi, Gwalior and Rajputana between January and June 1858.