Alexander Young (VC)


Alexander Young VC was an Irish South African recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious 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.

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.

World War I

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

The medal is held in Lord Ashcroft's VC Collection.