William Kenny

 

William Kenny was born on 24^th of August 1880 in Drogheda, County Louth. He enlisted in the British Army and served with the 2nd Battalion of The Gordon Highlanders. During his early military career, he saw action in the Second Boer War, earning both the Queen’s and King’s South Africa Medals.

At the start of the First World War, he was an experienced soldier and held positions as a drummer and battalion runner, which involved operating under direct enemy fire. During the First Battle of Ypres, Kenny was serving as a Drummer with the 2^nd Battalion of the Gordon Highlanders. His unit was posted between Kruiseecke and Zandvoorde, southeast of Gheluvelt and the Menin Road, and he was awarded the Victoria Cross for the following deed which took place on 23^rd of October 1914.during intense fighting on the Western Front, Kenny went out five times under enemy fire to assist wounded soldiers, delivered messages across exposed areas targeted by rifle and artillery fire, and retrieved two machine-guns that might have been captured. As a result of these actions, he was awarded the Victoria Cross, as announced in The London Gazette on 16^th of February 1915, and received the award from King George V at Glasgow Green on 18^th of May 1915.

“For conspicuous bravery on 23rd October, near Ypres, in rescuing wounded men on five occasions under very heavy fire in the most fearless manner, and for twice previously saving machine guns by carrying them out of action. On numerous occasions Drummer Kenny conveyed urgent messages under very dangerous circumstances over fire-swept ground”

Kenny’s service extended beyond his initial engagements; he continued to serve with distinction, receiving further commendations such as Russia’s Cross of St. George in August 1915 and being mentioned in despatches. His collection of medals includes the 1914 Star with Mons clasp, British War Medal, Victory Medal with oak leaf denoting his mention, and the Delhi Durbar Medal. He achieved the rank of Sergeant Drum‑Major and, following his active military service, was employed by the Corps of Commissionaires in London.

William Kenny
Brookwood Cemetery

Kenny lived a modest life following the war. He died in Hammersmith, London, on 10 January 1936, and was buried at Brookwood Cemetery in Surrey. Although his original grave marker was lost, a new headstone was installed in 1999. The inscription indicates that he is buried nearby, within the Corps of Commissionaires burial plot.  

Today, Kenny is recognised in both Ireland and the United Kingdom, with his medals exhibited at the Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen. He is regarded as one of Drogheda's most highly decorated individuals, noted for his exemplary conduct and distinguished service under challenging circumstances.