Ian McKay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ian John McKay
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| Born | 7 May 1953 Wortley, West Riding of Yorkshire, England |
| Died | 12 June 1982 (aged 29) Mount Longdon, Falkland Islands |
| Buried |
Aldershot Military Cemetery
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| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Years of service | 1970–1982 |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit | 3rd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment |
| Battles/wars | The Troubles Falklands War |
| Awards | Victoria Cross |
Ian John McKay was a brave soldier in the British Army. He was born on May 7, 1953, and sadly died on June 12, 1982. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery a soldier can get in the British and Commonwealth forces. He was given this award after he died, which is called a posthumous award.
Ian McKay was born in Wortley, a place near Barnsley in South Yorkshire, England. He was the oldest of three sons. His father, Kenneth John McKay, worked with steel. Ian went to Rotherham Grammar School for his education.
Joining the Army
Ian McKay finished school when he was seventeen years old. In August 1970, he joined the Army. He trained to become a paratrooper, which is a soldier who jumps from airplanes.
In early 1971, he joined the 1st Battalion, The Parachute Regiment (1 Para). During his time in the Army, he served in different places. These included Northern Ireland, Germany, and various parts of the United Kingdom.
By April 1982, Ian McKay had become a platoon sergeant. He was part of 4 Platoon, B Company, in the 3rd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment. His unit was sent to fight in the Falklands War.
Bravery in the Falklands War
Sergeant McKay showed incredible bravery during the Battle of Mount Longdon. This battle took place in the Falkland Islands. He was killed during this battle while fighting for his country.
Because of his amazing courage, he was awarded the Victoria Cross. This medal is given to soldiers who show the greatest bravery when facing the enemy.
Ian McKay's Medal
After Sergeant McKay passed away, his medals were sold by his wife around 1989. Today, his Victoria Cross medal is on display. You can see it at the Lord Ashcroft Gallery. This gallery is located inside the Imperial War Museum in London.
Remembering a Hero
Many places have been named in honor of Sergeant Ian McKay. This helps people remember his bravery and sacrifice.
In his hometown of Rotherham, there is an Army center called "McKay VC Barracks." Also, a building at the Defence Academy in Shrivenham is named McKay House.
In October 2011, a bar for Sergeants and Warrant Officers at MPA in the Falkland Islands was renamed. It is now called the "Ian McKay VC Bar."
There is also a gym and sports hall named the McKay VC Gymnasium. It is located at Vimy Barracks, Catterick Garrison. This facility is used to train new soldiers for The Parachute Regiment and other units.
Ian McKay's story was also featured in a TV show in 2006. It was a docudrama called Victoria Cross Heroes. The show included old videos and acted-out scenes of his brave actions. It also had an interview with his mother.
