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Sgt. Alexander Edwards VC
British Army 1/6th (Morayshire) Btn. Seaforth Highlanders
from:Scotland
(d.24 Mar 1918)
Alexander Edwards was a was born in Stotfield, Lossiemouth, Morayshire. He was the son of a fisherman and became a cooper working in the herring fishery. He served with the 1/6th (Morayshire) Bn, the Seaforth Highlanders, 51st Highland Division having joined the battalion at Elgin in July 1914. Edwards was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions at the Battle of Pilckem Ridge.
An extract from "The London Gazette," dated 14 September 1917, recorded the following: "For most conspicuous bravery in attack, when, having located a hostile machine gun in a wood, he, with great dash and courage, led some men against it, killed all the team and captured the gun. Later, when a sniper was causing casualties, he crawled out to stalk him, and although badly wounded in the arm, went on and killed him. One officer only was now left with the company, and, realising that the success of the operation depended on the capture of the furthest objective, Serjt. Edwards, regardless of his wound, led his men on till this objective was captured. He subsequently showed great skill in consolidating his position, and very great daring in personal reconnaissance. Although again twice wounded on the following day, this very gallant N.C.O. maintained throughout a complete disregard for personal safety, and his high example of coolness and determination engendered a fine fighting spirit in his men."
