World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Liverpool, England, during the First World War he served as a Major with the 119th Battery of the Royal Field Artillery. On August 24, 1914, at Elouges in Belgium, the flank guard was attacked by a German corps, but all of the guns were taken out of the range of enemy fire, although Major Alexander had to withdraw them by hand himself under heavy fire, along with some volunteers, led by Captain Francis Grenfell of the 9th Lancers. (Captain Grenfell received the VC for his part in the action). Consequently, the 5th Division was able to retreat without serious loss. Major Alexander went on to rescue a wounded man under heavy fire. For these actions he was awarded the VC. Eventually promoted to Major General during his military service, his other decorations included the Companion of the Order of the Bath, the Companion of St. Michael and St. George, and the Belgian Croix de Guerre. He died at Kingsbridge in Devonshire, and was cremated at Putney Vale, his ashes being placed in the family grave. In February 1999 his Victoria Cross was sold to a private buyer for £92,000.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Liverpool, England, during the First World War he served as a Major with the 119th Battery of the Royal Field Artillery. On August 24, 1914, at Elouges in Belgium, the flank guard was attacked by a German corps, but all of the guns were taken out of the range of enemy fire, although Major Alexander had to withdraw them by hand himself under heavy fire, along with some volunteers, led by Captain Francis Grenfell of the 9th Lancers. (Captain Grenfell received the VC for his part in the action). Consequently, the 5th Division was able to retreat without serious loss. Major Alexander went on to rescue a wounded man under heavy fire. For these actions he was awarded the VC. Eventually promoted to Major General during his military service, his other decorations included the Companion of the Order of the Bath, the Companion of St. Michael and St. George, and the Belgian Croix de Guerre. He died at Kingsbridge in Devonshire, and was cremated at Putney Vale, his ashes being placed in the family grave. In February 1999 his Victoria Cross was sold to a private buyer for £92,000.
Bio by: Iain MacFarlaine
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