.png)
Aubreys Auctioneers are honoured to announce the exceptional result achieved for one of the most historically and emotionally significant gallantry groups to have come to market in recent memory: the Military Cross awarded to Private Alexander Robert Kennedy M.C. of the 2nd Battalion, Mercian Regiment. At just 18 years old, Kennedy became the youngest known recipient of the Military Cross since the Second World War. The medal group, accompanied by an extraordinary archive and personal battlefield items, sold at auction on Wednesday, 28th May 2025 at Aubreys in Surrey for an impressive total of £33,800 inclluding fees, a result believed to represent an auction record for a modern Military Cross trio.
Kennedy was awarded the Military Cross for conspicuous gallantry under fire during Operation Herrick, in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, on 8th June 2009. His conduct during a ferocious Taliban ambush in the village of Gholam Alikhan Kalay has been widely recognised as one of the most outstanding acts of bravery by a British soldier in the modern era.
As the point man during a patrol, Kennedy was the first to come under fire when his unit was attacked from three directions by at least nine enemy fighters. His platoon commander, Captain Andy Bell, was shot and severely wounded. During the intense engagement, Kennedy himself was struck—his light machine gun was hit by enemy fire, shattering the weapon’s handle and sending shrapnel ricocheting into his helmet and goggles, temporarily blinding and deafening him. Despite the chaos, Kennedy displayed remarkable coolness under fire that would be commendable in a seasoned officer, let alone a private soldier with only six months’ experience.
In extraordinary circumstances, he crawled to his wounded commander, administered life-saving first aid, and assumed responsibility for radio communications—fully aware that the Taliban were deliberately targeting radio operators. Kennedy calmly transmitted an accurate situation report, facilitating armoured vehicle support. With exceptional bravery and determination, he returned to the fight, engaging enemy forces with controlled bursts from his damaged weapon, providing vital cover for the extraction of his commander and allowing his section to secure a safer position. His courageous actions on that day undoubtedly saved multiple lives and altered the outcome of a highly perilous engagement.
The awarding of Kennedy’s Military Cross was formally announced in the London Gazette Operational Honours List on 19 March 2010. His bravery was further acknowledged in Parliament and honoured at a civic reception hosted by Bromsgrove District Council. He received the prestigious decoration personally from HRH The Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace on 9th July 2010.
The lot sold at Aubreys Auctioneers was not merely a collection of medals but a deeply compelling and personal archive of modern gallantry. It included:
Now, more than fifteen years since the events that earned him the Military Cross, Kennedy made the carefully considered decision to part with his medals and associated items. Though proud of what they represent, the memories associated with them carry profound emotional significance that he, like many veterans, continues to grapple with. His choice to sell the group was deeply personal, reflective, and intended to honour the memories they hold. Kennedy has expressed satisfaction that the medals and archive, for which he has no children inherit, will now reside with someone who appreciates their profound historical significance. He takes comfort in knowing they will be treasured and preserved for generations to come.
Significantly, the proceeds from the auction will support charitable causes close to Kennedy’s heart. A portion of the funds will contribute to wildlife conservation, specifically projects aimed at protecting Africa’s iconic 'Big 5' species. Additionally, the sale will enable Kennedy to pursue further education and studies, reflecting his ongoing commitment to personal growth and development beyond his military career. As a business proud to support the armed services and veterans, Aubreys Auctioneers have not charged any vendors commission, meaning that Private Kennedy will receive 100% of the sale proceeds.
Kennedy has openly shared his experiences and is now considering writing an autobiography to further inspire and support others who have experienced similar challenges. He is actively engaged in veteran support networks and is passionate about promoting mental health awareness among former service personnel. Today, Kennedy is living a significantly happier and healthier life, successfully managing his PTSD and dedicating his time to raising awareness and providing guidance for fellow veterans. He strongly supports Op Courage, the NHS veterans’ mental health service, and regularly collaborates with the British Medical Association (BMA), sharing his experiences to help other veterans struggling with their own recovery journeys.
Kennedy’s decision to entrust Aubreys Auctioneers with the sale of such important and deeply personal items was founded on a relationship of absolute trust and mutual respect. Reflecting on his experience with the auction house, Kennedy emphasised: “I trusted Aubreys 100% from the beginning. The care, discretion, and professionalism they provided was outstanding, making a difficult process manageable and respectful, and I'm very pleased with the result”.
Aubrey Dawson, Managing Director at Aubreys Auctioneers, remarked: "For Kennedy, the Military Cross has always represented both extraordinary courage and profound personal sacrifice. His decision to sell these precious items is emblematic of a powerful journey forward, not a rejection of their significance. The remarkable result achieved at auction speaks volumes of the respect and admiration collectors have for such deeply personal and historically important items. We believe this sale sets a new record for a modern Military Cross trio, underscoring the extraordinary nature of Kennedy's bravery and sacrifice."
The exceptional interest and record-breaking price realised by this sale underscores the market’s recognition of the historical significance and emotional resonance of Kennedy’s service. This result ensures that the legacy of Alexander Kennedy’s bravery, sacrifice, and selfless service will remain preserved, celebrated, and remembered for many years to come.
