A MODERN-DAY British war hero from Bromsgrove who is the youngest recipient of the Military Cross since WWII has sold his gallantry medals at auction for a record-breaking sum.
Lance Corporal Alexander Kennedy, aged 34, was awarded for bravery after his platoon was ambushed by the Taliban in Afghanistan in 2009 when he was just 18-years-old.
His actions have been widely recognised as ‘one of the most outstanding acts of bravery by a British soldier in the modern era’ and earned him the Military Cross.
The veteran, who was a Private when the ambush happened, now lives with PTSD and made the ‘difficult’ decision to part with his gallantry medals as he ‘grapples with’ the ‘profound emotional significance’ associated with the items.
Kennedy’s collection of medals and memorabilia which included his battle-damaged helmet and a collection of personal congratulatory letters from senior British military figures sold for £33,800, including fees, at Aubrey’s Auctioneers last Wednesday (May 28). The sum is believed to be an auction record for a modern Military Cross trio.
Kennedy of the 2nd Battalion, Mercian Regiment, had just six months military experience when his platoon came under fire from at least nine enemy fighters in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
The ‘ferocious’ attack left his platoon commander, Captain Andy Bell, severely wounded and resulted in Kennedy himself being struck – with his light machine gun’s handle shattered by enemy fire, sending shrapnel ricocheting into his helmet and goggles, temporarily blinding and deafening him.
Despite the chaos, Kennedy displayed remarkable coolness under fire, crawling to his wounded commander and administering life-saving first aid before assuming responsibility for radio communications.
Fully aware that the Taliban were targeting radio operators, Kennedy calmly transmitted an accurate report, facilitating armoured vehicle support. He then returned to the fight, engaging enemy forces with his damaged weapon, providing vital cover for the extraction of his commander and allowing his section to secure a safer position. His actions undoubtedly saved multiple lives and altered the outcome of a highly perilous engagement.
The awarding of Kennedy’s Military Cross was formally announced on March 19, 2010. His bravery was further acknowledged in Parliament and honoured at a civic reception hosted by Bromsgrove District Council.
He received the prestigious decoration personally from HRH The Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace on July 9, 2010.
Some proceeds from the auction will support charitable causes close to Kennedy’s heart. Beneficiaries include wildlife conservation efforts, specifically projects aimed at protecting Africa’s iconic ‘Big 5’ species.
The sale will also enable Kennedy to pursue further education and studies, with his aims for the future including writing an autobiography to further inspire and support others experiencing similar challenges.
He is actively engaged in veteran support networks and is passionate about promoting mental health awareness among former service personnel. Today, Kennedy is living a significantly happier and healthier life, successfully managing his PTSD and dedicating his time to raising awareness and providing guidance for fellow veterans.
