Alex Kennedy (British Army soldier)
Alexander Robert Kennedy MC is a serving member of the British Army and believed to be the youngest person to be awarded the Military Cross since the Second World War.[1][2]
Kennedy is originally from Bromsgrove.[1] A private in the Mercian Regiment, he was awarded the MC on 19 March 2010,[3] in recognition of his efforts to aid his injured platoon commander whilst under fire during a battle in Helmand province, Afghanistan in June 2009, when aged only 18.[4]
Private Kennedy was taking part in an operation to clear hostile terrain in Garmsir when his group was attacked by Taliban insurgents who opened fire from 100–150 metres away. Kennedy's platoon commander was shot three times below the hips. Upon reaching and attending to his commander, Kennedy then used his radio to direct fire at his attackers.[5]
Bromsgrove District Council recognised Kennedy's actions in a civic reception in 2010, where Major Bob Prophet of the 2nd Battalion Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) read his full Military Cross citation. Kennedy requested only a minute’s silence for casualties, including Private Robbie Laws of Bromsgrove.[6]
References
- 1 2 "Young Bromsgrove soldier receives Military Cross". BBC News. 13 April 2010. Retrieved 18 February 2016.
- ↑ Parker, Andrew (14 April 2010). "The Boy Wonder MC". The Sun. Retrieved 18 February 2016.
- ↑ The London Gazette: (Supplement) no. 59366. p. 4834. 19 March 2010. Retrieved 14 April 2010.
- ↑ "Hero soldier Alex Kennedy becomes youngest to receive Military Cross". Mail Online. 13 April 2010. Retrieved 18 February 2016.
- ↑ "Login". the Times. (subscription required (help)).
- ↑ "A tale of teenage bravery". The Village magazine. Retrieved 25 October 2016.
External links
- Operational Honours and Awards Citations: 19 March 2010, Ministry of Defence, includes Kennedy's citation.