Monument to Thomas Alexander CB

Image: © Anne Burgess Taken: 9 Jun 2013

Thomas Alexander CB was an army surgeon who was responsible for great improvements in the condition of soldiers, especially in the Crimean war. He was born in Prestonpans, the son of William Alexander, flesher (butcher) and his wife Helen Kemp, and died in London. The memorial was erected in 1862. The plinth is inscribed on all four faces. This side reads, 'In memory of Thomas Alexander CB, Director General of the Military Department of the British Army. Born Prestonpans, 6th May 1812, Died 1 February 1860'. On the right, 'The improved sanitary conditions of the British army as well as the elevation in rank and consideration of its Medical Officers are mainly to his exertions, his high professional attainments and his great administrative powers were wholly devoted to the service of his country and to the cause of humanity'. On the back is a list of the places where he served; The West Indies, North America, Caffraria, Alma, Inkerman and Sebastopol, and on the left, ' Throughout a long military career he laboured incessantly to elevate the condition of the soldier and during the Crimean War his indefatigable efforts as Principal Medical Officer of the Light Division to alleviate the sufferings of the troops were of inestimable value in stimulating others to follow his example'. For a fuller biography see http://warmemscot.s4.bizhat.com/warmemscot-ftopic5115.html

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