Alexander Young (VC) facts for kids

Alexander Young, VC (27 January 1873 – 19 October 1916) was an Irish-born South African soldier and a recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

A native of Oranmore, County Galway, Young joined the Queen's Bays on 22 May 1890 at Renmore. He served for a time in India, and became a riding instructor. He first saw active service in the Mahdist War, Second Boer War, and First World War.

VC details

Young was 28 years old and a sergeant-major in the Cape Police, South African Forces during the Second Boer War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

Towards the close of the action at Ruiter's Kraal on the 13th August, 1901, Sergeant-Major Young, with a handful of men, rushed some kopjes which were being; held by Commandant Erasmus and about 20 Boers. On reaching these kopjes the enemy were seen galloping back to another kopje held by the Boers. Sergeant-Major Young then galloped on some 50 yards ahead of his party and closing with the enemy shot one of them and captured Commandant Erasmus, the latter firing at him three times at point blank range before being taken prisoner.

First World War

Young served with the South African Scottish Regiment with the rank of lieutenant in the First World War. He was killed in action during the Battle of the Somme on 19 October 1916. His name is included on a list of war dead in St. Nicholas's church, Galway.

The medal

Young's Victoria Cross is held in Lord Ashcroft's VC collection.