Ian John McKay VC (1953-1982)
Graves of British Soldiers, Falkland Islands, 1982. NAM 1999-11-172-49
‘With a complete disregard for his own safety, he displayed courage and leadership of the highest order, and was an inspiration to all those around him.’ - Victoria Cross (VC) Citation, The London Gazette, 8 October 1982
During the night of 11/12 June 1982, 3rd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment mounted a silent night attack on an enemy battalion position on Mount Longdon, an important objective in the battle for Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands. Sergeant McKay’s platoon commander was badly injured and so command passed to him. The men were pinned down by heavy gunfire and their position was becoming very dangerous. It was clear that action needed to be taken if the platoon was to move forward. If they stayed were they were, more men would probably die.
Sergeant McKay decided that an attack was the best option. Taking three other men he jumped out from behind the rocks that were sheltering them and charged. Immediately they met a hail of bullets. Two of the men with McKay were killed and the other fell wounded. Despite being left alone, McKay continued with his charge, reaching and taking out the enemy machine gun position. The men behind him were able to move to safety but Sergeant McKay was killed at the position he had cleared. Sergeant McKay's body was returned to Britain. His grave is at Aldershot Military Cemetery.
