David MacKay (VC)


David MacKay VC was a Scottish recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to United Kingdom and Commonwealth forces.

Life

Born at Alterwall, Howe, Lyth, Scotland, the son of a farm labourer, he enlisted in the 93rd Highlanders on 23 December 1850 and served in the Crimean War.

The VC

He was awarded the VC for an action at the Siege of Lucknow during the Indian Mutiny. His citation in the London Gazette dated 24 December 1858 reads:

The medal

The whereabouts of the VC is unknown, Mackay sold it while he was still alive and it was auctioned around 1910.

Memorial

Mackay was awarded the VC in 1857 but was buried in Lesmahagow cemetery in an unmarked grave. A ceremony was held at the cemetery on 14 November 1998 to unveil a marker erected near the grave.