Alexander Lafone facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alexander Malins Lafone
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| Nickname(s) | "Laffy" |
| Born | 19 October 1870 Liverpool, United Kingdom |
| Died | 27 October 1917 (aged 47) Buggar Ridge, Zeelem, Palestine |
| Buried |
Beersheba War Cemetery
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| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Rank | Major |
| Unit | Imperial Yeomanry 1/1st County of London Yeomanry (Middlesex, Duke of Cambridge's Hussars) |
| Battles/wars | Second Boer War World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Major Alexander Malins Lafone (born 19 August 1870 – died 27 October 1917) was a brave British Army officer from England. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery in the face of the enemy. This special medal is given to soldiers from Britain and Commonwealth countries.
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Who Was Alexander Lafone?
Alexander Malins Lafone was born in Liverpool, England. He went to school at Dulwich College. After finishing school, he joined the British Army.
Early Military Career
In 1901, Alexander Lafone became a second lieutenant in the Middlesex Yeomanry. This was a special part of the army. He fought in the Second Boer War, which was a conflict in South Africa. He became ill during the war and had to return home.
After getting better, he was promoted to Lieutenant in 1902. He then worked in Northern Nigeria for the government. He helped manage the area. However, he kept getting fevers, so he had to go back to England. Even in England, he stayed connected with the army.
His Incredible Bravery: The Victoria Cross
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Major Lafone earned the Victoria Cross for his amazing bravery during World War I. This happened on 27 October 1917, during the Battle of Buqqar Ridge in Palestine. He was leading his men against a much larger enemy force.
Holding the Line
Major Lafone and his soldiers held their position for over seven hours. The enemy was firing heavily at them, making it hard to see. During one attack, enemy cavalry (soldiers on horseback) tried to attack their side. Major Lafone led his men to push them back. The enemy lost many soldiers.
In another attack, fifteen enemy soldiers fell very close to his trench. One enemy soldier even reached the trench. Major Lafone bravely fought him off himself.
A True Leader
As the battle continued, most of Major Lafone's men were injured. Only three soldiers were still able to fight. The trench they were in became full of wounded soldiers, making it hard to move or shoot. Major Lafone ordered the soldiers who could still walk to move to a safer trench behind them.
He stayed in his position and continued to fight with incredible courage. Even when he was completely surrounded by the enemy, he stepped out into the open. He kept fighting until he was badly wounded and lost consciousness.
Inspiring His Men
Major Lafone's positive attitude and bravery were a huge inspiration to his men. His strong leadership and dedication helped them hold their position. He had been ordered to hold the line no matter what, and he did so with his life. His actions saved many lives and showed true heroism.
