Donald MacKintosh (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Donald MacKintosh
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Lieutenant MacKintosh's dying moments depicted on Fettes College war memorial
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| Born | 7 February 1896 Glasgow, Scotland |
| Died | 11 April 1917 (aged 21) near Fampoux, France |
| Buried |
Brown's Copse Cemetery, Roeux
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | 1914-1917 † |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | The Seaforth Highlanders |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Donald MacKintosh was a very brave Scottish soldier. He received the Victoria Cross (VC). This is the highest award for courage a soldier can get. It is given to those who show amazing bravery against the enemy. Soldiers from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries can earn it. Donald MacKintosh was born in 1896 and passed away in 1917.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Donald MacKintosh was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on February 7, 1896. His father was Dr. Donald James MacKintosh. When Donald was young, he lived in Moffat with his mother. This was while his father was serving in the Boer War.
Donald went to St Ninian's Preparatory School in Moffat. Later, his family moved back to Glasgow. He then attended Glasgow Academy. After that, he became a boarder at Fettes College in Edinburgh.
Joining the Army
Donald planned to study medicine at Glasgow University. However, World War I started, changing his plans. He decided to join the Royal Army Medical Corps. He quickly became an Acting Sergeant.
In February 1915, he received his commission. This meant he became an officer. He then joined the Seaforth Highlanders.
Service in France
Donald was sent to France to fight in the war. On March 21, 1916, he was badly wounded. He received treatment at Le Touquet Hospital. Then, he was sent home to Britain for more care. He returned to his battalion in July 1916.
Heroic Actions at Arras
Donald MacKintosh was 21 years old. He was a lieutenant in the 3rd Battalion of The Seaforth Highlanders. This was part of the British Army. His brave actions happened during the Battle of Arras.
On April 11, 1917, near Fampoux, France, the soldiers were advancing. Lieutenant MacKintosh was shot in his right leg. Even though he was hurt, he kept leading his men. They successfully captured the enemy trench.
Facing a Counter-Attack
After capturing the trench, he gathered soldiers from another company. Their leader was gone. Lieutenant MacKintosh then led them to push back a counter-attack. During this fight, he was wounded again. He could no longer stand up.
Despite his injuries, he still controlled the situation. He only had 15 men left. He told them to get ready to advance to their final goal. With great difficulty, he managed to get out of the trench. He encouraged his men to keep moving forward. Sadly, he was wounded one more time and fell.
Burial Place
Donald MacKintosh is buried in Brown's Copse Cemetery. This cemetery is near the village of Rouex. It is just north-east of Arras in France. His grave is marked II.C.49.
Memorials
Donald MacKintosh's brave final moments are remembered at Fettes College. His actions are shown on their War memorial. The memorial features a statue of him. He is shown urging his men forward. The statue has the words "Carry on" written on it.
The Medal
Donald MacKintosh's Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at The Highlanders Museum. This museum is part of the Queen's Own Highlanders Collection. It is located at Fort George, Scotland.
