There are many accounts, some reported in the Jewish Chronicle, of Alexander remaining devoted to his faith throughout his life, including during his service in the army. In a tribute after his death by 'one who knew him' published in the Jewish Chronicle he is described as 'never infringing on Dietary Laws' and his piety was exemplary. Furthermore they state that it is a testament to his character that other soldiers in his unit liked him so much that they always tried to help him to keep kosher and respected him deeply.

After he was killed in action a number of friends, comrades and family paid tribute to Alexander in memorial pieces published in the Jewish Chronicle. In these tributes he was described as 'a high character of much personal attractiveness' and a man of duty and honour. His piety and devotion to Judaism is mentioned by many who admired his conduct and strength in remaining dedicated to his faith even through the hardships of war. It was noted that while serving that he was referred to by his comrades as 'Mr. Lion', a reflection of his 'refinement' and gentlemanly demeanour.

In the JC of 9 July, a letter was published from a Lt J B Grey, written to Moss Lion, Alexander’s brother, in which he states: "We are all very grieved at the loss of your brother, for not only was he an excellent rifleman, but he was always very well humoured and cheery and one of the most enthusiastic men in the Company.”

While serving on the front in Flanders Alexander was part of an eight man bomb throwing expedition advancing on an enemy trench. It was reported that though two of the team returned Alexander was not amongst them. Requests for information on his whereabouts and wellbeing were posted in the Jewish Chronicle by his parents but he was later confirmed Killed in Action on the 24th of June 1915, described by a comrade as 'giving his life willingly for his country'.

In the JC on 2 July, a letter from a friend, Pte Herman dated 26 June, to Alexander’s father, said: “He went into a bomb throwing expedition last Tuesday and he has been missing ever since. Nothing has been seen or heard of him. I hope he is a prisoner or with another regiment. I’m sending you, through the normal channels, some of his personal property. I was not in the charge that was made to capture the trenches and did not see him disappear.”

Finally the JC of 12 May 1916 – almost a year later – published the family’s announcement that he was now assumed killed. On 19 May an anonymous comrade wrote a warm tribute to him and on 26 May his employer (J Levy) and his Army Jewish Chaplain Rev A Plaskow (who knew him at Aldershot barracks) wrote two more moving epitaphs. Alexander had been a very observant Jew, attending religious services in the field and never eating meat on active duty. He had clearly been much respected by his comrades.