I heard the pibroch sounding, sounding,O'er the wide meadows and lands from afar.
I heard the pibroch sounding, sounding,O'er the wide meadows and lands from afar.
I heard the pibroch sounding, sounding,
O'er the wide meadows and lands from afar.
or to the stirring strains of the 'March of the Battle of Harlaw,' or to the crooning, hoping, sobbing of 'Lord Lovat's Lament,' and so went on from hour to hour through the emptiness of Southern Germany. When we thought we had just about reached our camping ground for the night, we came to a guide post which showed it still to be seven kilometres on. But that was at the top of a long hill, and the road ran gently down through woods the whole way. The colonel sent a message to play 'Men of Portree.' The rain had stopped, and an evening sky unveiled a more cheerful light. So, with an easy inconsequent air, we cast off care and tripped away down to the substantial and prosperous bit of Rhineland called Hellenthal, well on our way to Cologne."[11]
The interminable marches are over and their goal has been attained; and the instrument which has a tune for every human emotion can now play "The Desperate Battle" in German towns with a safety which has been long unknown. To many a man, however, as he fingers his chanter, the feeling will come, as he thinks of the good men and true who never reached the 11th November, 1918, that the tune that is most appropriate is "Lochaber no more."
Pipe tunes—as every piper knows—have local associations, associations with particular incidents, particular emotions; and in military piping this is never overlooked. In war everything has changed—everything but the elemental courage and passions of the men who are engaged in it; and, aspiob mhoris essentially the instrument on which those elemental passions can be best expressed, it is not uninteresting to observe how individual pipers have resorted to particular tunes, to suit particular occasions. In many, perhaps in most, cases there were traditional or regimental reasons for playing one tune rather than another, and such tunes were often in the highest degree appropriate; but in other cases the individuality of the performer determined the choice.
Of a selection based on tradition the best authenticated instance is that of the Gordon piper who played Cogadh na Sith, "War or peace,"during the Somme fighting. The tune itself, a piobaireachd composed by the great M'Crimmon some 400 years ago, was played by the Gordons at Waterloo and by a Cameron piper, Kenneth M'Kay, at Quatre Bras.
"[12]About the middle of June a draft of about a hundred and twenty men arrived in camp for the Gordons—the finest draft the commanding officer declared he had ever seen. On the 18th, they were ordered to the front. I found they had a piper with them, and immediately laid hold on him to play the men down to the station. I brought him up to my tent and provided him with a set of pipes which I had reserved for my own particular work.... I found something more interesting than that. His great-grandfather had been a piper in the regiment in the days of the Napoleonic war, and at the Battle of Waterloo he stood within the square and played the ancient Highland challenge-march 'Cogadh na Sith,' as the French cuirassiers hurled themselves upon the immovable ranks in vain.
"'John,' I said, 'this is the anniversary of Waterloo, and you will lead the men out to that very tune which your great-grandfather played on that great day.' I told the colonel, and his eyes gleamed as he said to me, 'Ah! padre, we'll do better than that. You will tell the men about it, and I will call them to attention, and your piper will play his tune in memory of the men of Waterloo.'
"And so it was done, and a thrilling incident it was as the men stood rigid and silent in full marching order, and the piper strode proudly along the ranks, sounding the wild, defiant challenge that stirred the regiment a hundred years before."
Regimental tunes appeal enormously to the men who hear and know them; it was probably as much the sound of "Blue Bonnets over the Border" as the sight of Piper Laidlaw piping along the parapet that made the men, shaken with shell fire and gas, go straight forward; and red hackles have followed "Highland Laddie" in circumstances when another tune might have failed to exert the same extraordinary influence. But, having played his regulation onset, the piper has an opportunity of suiting his own taste and selecting a tune appropriate musically and emotionally, as well as in name, to the occasion.
On many occasions when the choice of a tune has not been restricted by regimental custom or tradition, individual performers have made selections which indicated the remarkable mentality of the British soldier.
At Loos, where Pipers Simpson and M'Donald of the 2nd Black Watch played their company over the top and through the attack, the tune they commenced with was "Happy we've been a' thegither,"—only later changing into the ceremonial onset "Highland Laddie." To men in a trench who have suffered untold nerve strain waiting for Zero and who happen—as do most men in Highland regiments—to know one tune from another, no more appropriate combination of "onsets" could have been selected.
At Beaumont Hamel, when the 17th H.L.I. took the German trenches and had an opportunity of bombing out the occupants, Pipe Major Gilbert played another popular and very suitable tune, "The muckin' o' Geordie's Byre," and greatly encouraged the men in their task. This same tune has done duty on many similar occasions.
It was to "We'll tak the guid auld way" that the 16th Canadians attacked at Vimy, and many Cameron pipers have played the "Piobaireachd Dhomhnuill Duibh" in similar circumstances.
Another very favourite tune was "The Macgregor's Gathering" which was played with great effect in the capture of many villages during the Somme fighting.
A curious coincidence was the selection by the pipers of the 1st H.L.I. of "I'll gang nae mair tae yon toun" as they marched out of Marseilles on 1st November, 1914, on their way to the front. During the first six months they lost seven pipers killed, eight wounded and two taken prisoner, and the band ceased to exist.
"Baile Inneraora,"—otherwise "The Campbells are Coming"—was the tune to which the first Highland regiment of the Expeditionary Force, the 2nd Argylls, landed in France; from that time onward it has immortalised on every front, if that were necessary, the town of which Burns wrote:
"There's naething here but Highland prideAnd Highland scab and hunger.If Providence has sent me here,'Twas surely in his anger."
"There's naething here but Highland prideAnd Highland scab and hunger.If Providence has sent me here,'Twas surely in his anger."
"There's naething here but Highland pride
And Highland scab and hunger.
If Providence has sent me here,
'Twas surely in his anger."
The Argylls long ago took Burns' song and treated it with the contempt it deserves when they adopted "Baile Inneraora" as their "onset." It was played at the taking of Longueval, in the attack at Loos, and at the subsequent rally after that glorious disaster, and in many other actions.
During the fighting on the Somme for the heaps of ruins which had once been a French village, an incident occurred which takes us back to the legend connected with the pibroch "A Cholla, mo run." Long ages ago, when the Campbells heard they were going to be attacked by Coll Kiteach at Dunivaig, they set an ambush and captured the advance guard. All were hanged except the piper, who was given permission to play a lament over his comrades. The piper at once started the warning, which was heard and understood by his comrades,
"Coll of my love avoid the strait, avoid the strait, avoid the strait,Coll of my love, go by the Mull, gain the landing place."
"Coll of my love avoid the strait, avoid the strait, avoid the strait,Coll of my love, go by the Mull, gain the landing place."
"Coll of my love avoid the strait, avoid the strait, avoid the strait,
Coll of my love, go by the Mull, gain the landing place."
The poor piper was instantly stabbed by the infuriated Campbells.
It is a far cry from those days, when men could converse to each other in pibroch, to 1916; but another tune—not "A Cholla, mo run"—was played by another piper in a French village when his party was cut off. Two officers, a sergeant, and a piper of an Argyll battalion, got separated from the main body, and found themselves unable to get away when the village was again attacked by our men. The small party at once started bombing the enemy from the rear, but the piper, appreciating the unpleasant possibility of their own presence not being recognised, struck up the regimental onset. This alarmed the Germans, who thought they were being attacked from a fresh quarter, and materially contributed to the success of the operation.
"Agus bha iad am measg uam fear treuna 'n an luchd-cuideachaidh 's a' chogadh."
To attempt to compile a complete record of the achievements of individual pipers or of the pipe bands of units is an impossible task; it would involve a review of the whole course of the war. A long time must elapse before the histories of battalions are completed, and even then we shall probably never know fully the extent to which their pipers have contributed to the attainment of success.
Throughout the war correspondence has been carried on with individuals who, in spite of their appalling environment, have found time to supply information. They at least have the satisfaction of knowing that to them is largely due the fact that brave acts have been saved from oblivion.
Such a review as follows is but a fragmentary one, based on information obtained from officers, N.C.O.'s and men of the battalions concerned—but almost never from individual pipers. Among these men there appears to have been a conspiracy of silence, and attempts to obtain fuller information as to the reason for the granting of awards or the names of pipers whose identity disappeared under the blue pencil of the Censor have proved in very many instances unavailing.
The omission from these pages of mention of achievements of pipers of many battalions must be regarded as indicating lack of space to record them, or of failure to obtain the desired information.
The original Expeditionary Force landed in France with seven Scottish battalions possessing pipe bands; when the armistice was signed the number of such units exceeded a hundred. Although on mobilisation the number of "full" pipers in a battalion is only six it must be remembered that there are always "acting pipers" serving in the companies who are available—until that source of supply is exhausted—to take the place of casualties; and it is safe to reckon that the 100 battalions have had more than 2500 pipers at various times.
The numbers that served in various units during the campaign varied enormously; in some, which freely utilised their pipers in the front line—in the ranks, as bearers, and as pipers in action—as many as seventy or eightyhave been borne on the strength at different times; in others, which kept these men invariably behind the front line, the casualties were negligible and comparatively few were used up.
This difference in method of employment largely explains the variations in the casualty lists and honours of different units; and, in some cases, it has been found impossible to obtain anything like complete information.
8543 PiperJames Mackenzie, 1st Scots Guards.During the desperate fighting about Ypres in October, 1914, Piper Mackenzie greatly distinguished himself bringing up ammunition to the firing line. He was killed while doing so. Awarded a mention in despatches.
8543 PiperJames Mackenzie, 1st Scots Guards.
During the desperate fighting about Ypres in October, 1914, Piper Mackenzie greatly distinguished himself bringing up ammunition to the firing line. He was killed while doing so. Awarded a mention in despatches.
8081 PiperCharles Scott Maguire, 2nd Scots Guards.On the 27th October, 1914, near Ypres, an advanced trench was blown to pieces by shell fire, most of its occupants being killed or wounded. Hearing calls for help, Piper Maguire went forward from the support trench to report. He crawled 15 yards on hands and knees to the wrecked trench and found several men had been buried by the explosion. Although without any protection from enemy fire he dug out a man and found he was dead; he continued his task and got out another, placing him for safety under cover of the dead body. He then crawled back to his trench. The N.C.O. in charge had been killed meantime, and no official report of his conduct was possible. Maguire himself was wounded shortly after, his back being broken; he died of paralysis some seven months later.
8081 PiperCharles Scott Maguire, 2nd Scots Guards.
On the 27th October, 1914, near Ypres, an advanced trench was blown to pieces by shell fire, most of its occupants being killed or wounded. Hearing calls for help, Piper Maguire went forward from the support trench to report. He crawled 15 yards on hands and knees to the wrecked trench and found several men had been buried by the explosion. Although without any protection from enemy fire he dug out a man and found he was dead; he continued his task and got out another, placing him for safety under cover of the dead body. He then crawled back to his trench. The N.C.O. in charge had been killed meantime, and no official report of his conduct was possible. Maguire himself was wounded shortly after, his back being broken; he died of paralysis some seven months later.
11002 PiperJ. McMillan, 1st Royal Scots.Was awarded the D.C.M. for conspicuous gallantry as a battalion scout.
11002 PiperJ. McMillan, 1st Royal Scots.
Was awarded the D.C.M. for conspicuous gallantry as a battalion scout.
10123Corpl.E. Collins,}10754PiperJ. Clancy,}10639"J. Smart,}1st Royal Scots.10032"P. Mallin,}During the operations on the Salonika front the battalion had to capture Karadzakot Zir. The men had to advance over open country to the attack. These pipers played over three successive charges to the enemy's position, and the commanding officer considered their gallantry on this occasion was to a large extent instrumental in bringing about the success of the attack. In spite of their exposed position they all got through without being touched.
During the operations on the Salonika front the battalion had to capture Karadzakot Zir. The men had to advance over open country to the attack. These pipers played over three successive charges to the enemy's position, and the commanding officer considered their gallantry on this occasion was to a large extent instrumental in bringing about the success of the attack. In spite of their exposed position they all got through without being touched.
11065 PiperH. M'Leod, 2nd Royal Scots.Was repeatedly mentioned in despatches for gallantry in attending wounded under fire, and was recommended for the D.C.M.
11065 PiperH. M'Leod, 2nd Royal Scots.
Was repeatedly mentioned in despatches for gallantry in attending wounded under fire, and was recommended for the D.C.M.
1235 PiperW. Sinclair, 5th Royal Scots.Shortly after the original landing on the Gallipoli Peninsula, a critical retirement took place. Piper Sinclair, on his own initiative, gathered together a handful ofstragglers, and, taking up a favourable position, covered successfully the withdrawal of the battalion. He was killed.
1235 PiperW. Sinclair, 5th Royal Scots.
Shortly after the original landing on the Gallipoli Peninsula, a critical retirement took place. Piper Sinclair, on his own initiative, gathered together a handful ofstragglers, and, taking up a favourable position, covered successfully the withdrawal of the battalion. He was killed.
Pipe MajorJohn Buchan, 4th Royal Scots.Just before the attack on Achi Baba on 28th June, 1915, Pipe Major Buchan played along the line as the battalion went over; he was killed.
Pipe MajorJohn Buchan, 4th Royal Scots.
Just before the attack on Achi Baba on 28th June, 1915, Pipe Major Buchan played along the line as the battalion went over; he was killed.
7271 Pipe MajorJ. M'Dougall, 8th Royal Scots.Was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal "for gallant conduct under very trying circumstances" as a stretcher bearer at Festubert in May, 1915.
7271 Pipe MajorJ. M'Dougall, 8th Royal Scots.
Was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal "for gallant conduct under very trying circumstances" as a stretcher bearer at Festubert in May, 1915.
Corpl.Alexander Forsyth, 9th Royal Scots.At Arras in April, 1917, this man, who was a highly skilled bomber, volunteered to bomb the Germans out of a position in which they were covered by machine guns. He crawled up and succeeded in his object, but was killed. He was given the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
Corpl.Alexander Forsyth, 9th Royal Scots.
At Arras in April, 1917, this man, who was a highly skilled bomber, volunteered to bomb the Germans out of a position in which they were covered by machine guns. He crawled up and succeeded in his object, but was killed. He was given the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
13283 Pipe MajorA. Colgan, 12th Royal Scots.In the Loos attack the pipe major played the battalion over the top and was wounded. Subsequently, in the great German offensive in 1918, when pipers had to serve in the ranks, he got the Military Medal "for good leadership and courage."
13283 Pipe MajorA. Colgan, 12th Royal Scots.
In the Loos attack the pipe major played the battalion over the top and was wounded. Subsequently, in the great German offensive in 1918, when pipers had to serve in the ranks, he got the Military Medal "for good leadership and courage."
Pipe MajorJohn Mouat, 13th Royal Scots.During the final advance in 1918 the pipers were employed as bearers, and suffered heavy casualties. Pipe Major Mouat received a mention in despatches.
Pipe MajorJohn Mouat, 13th Royal Scots.
During the final advance in 1918 the pipers were employed as bearers, and suffered heavy casualties. Pipe Major Mouat received a mention in despatches.
Pipe MajorMurdoch Macdonald, 13th Royal Scots.A heavy shell burst among a company and buried a number of men. Pipe Major Macdonald went out alone, under very heavy shell fire and brought in six wounded men unaided.
Pipe MajorMurdoch Macdonald, 13th Royal Scots.
A heavy shell burst among a company and buried a number of men. Pipe Major Macdonald went out alone, under very heavy shell fire and brought in six wounded men unaided.
Pipe MajorDavid Anderson, 15th Royal Scots.In the opening attack on the Somme front on 1st July, 1916, the battalion was played forward by the pipe major, to the old regimental tune "Dumbarton's drums." He was hit shortly after going over the top, but continued playing; he was again wounded after crossing the third line of trenches and fell to the ground. He tried to go on playing while sitting on the ground, but his pipes were shattered by a shell bursting near him. He managed to get up and was at once attacked by a German, but succeeded in knocking him out with his fists, and then continued fighting with a rifle until overcome by his wounds.Pipe Major Anderson was given the one Croix de Guerre allotted to his Division for the most conspicuous act of bravery. The pipes he was playing on this occasion were of historical interest as they had been taken to the Antarctic by a member of Scott's expedition, and had been played also in the Arctic expedition of 1907.Another interesting feature of Anderson's achievement was that several Germans surrendered to him as he played on the parapet of one of their trenches.
Pipe MajorDavid Anderson, 15th Royal Scots.
In the opening attack on the Somme front on 1st July, 1916, the battalion was played forward by the pipe major, to the old regimental tune "Dumbarton's drums." He was hit shortly after going over the top, but continued playing; he was again wounded after crossing the third line of trenches and fell to the ground. He tried to go on playing while sitting on the ground, but his pipes were shattered by a shell bursting near him. He managed to get up and was at once attacked by a German, but succeeded in knocking him out with his fists, and then continued fighting with a rifle until overcome by his wounds.
Pipe Major Anderson was given the one Croix de Guerre allotted to his Division for the most conspicuous act of bravery. The pipes he was playing on this occasion were of historical interest as they had been taken to the Antarctic by a member of Scott's expedition, and had been played also in the Arctic expedition of 1907.
Another interesting feature of Anderson's achievement was that several Germans surrendered to him as he played on the parapet of one of their trenches.
Pipe MajorDavid Campbell, 1st Royal Scots Fusiliers.Although he had been wounded in the arm on the previous day Pipe Major Campbell played his battalion to the attack on the German position at Hooge on June 16, 1915.He played on right up to the German wire entanglements when, throwing his pipes aside, he caught up the bayonet of a comrade who had just been shot by a German officer and at once attacked the latter. He captured the officer.
Pipe MajorDavid Campbell, 1st Royal Scots Fusiliers.
Although he had been wounded in the arm on the previous day Pipe Major Campbell played his battalion to the attack on the German position at Hooge on June 16, 1915.He played on right up to the German wire entanglements when, throwing his pipes aside, he caught up the bayonet of a comrade who had just been shot by a German officer and at once attacked the latter. He captured the officer.
9884 PiperHigginson, 1st K.O.S.B.The initial engagement of the battalion was the landing on Gallipoli. During the first few days the pipers were fighting in the ranks, and the gallant exploit of Piper Higginson is eloquent indication of the fact that they played the part of the fighting man right well. All the officers and N.C.O.'s of his Company having been killed or wounded during the heavy fighting of 26th April, 1915, Piper Higginson rallied the remainder, and organised and led a bayonet charge with such dash and bravery that the Turks were swept back from a line they had captured earlier in the day. Just as success was attained Piper Higginson was mortally wounded, and died some hours later. Had he survived he was to have been recommended for the D.C.M.
9884 PiperHigginson, 1st K.O.S.B.
The initial engagement of the battalion was the landing on Gallipoli. During the first few days the pipers were fighting in the ranks, and the gallant exploit of Piper Higginson is eloquent indication of the fact that they played the part of the fighting man right well. All the officers and N.C.O.'s of his Company having been killed or wounded during the heavy fighting of 26th April, 1915, Piper Higginson rallied the remainder, and organised and led a bayonet charge with such dash and bravery that the Turks were swept back from a line they had captured earlier in the day. Just as success was attained Piper Higginson was mortally wounded, and died some hours later. Had he survived he was to have been recommended for the D.C.M.
1315PiperMaitland,}8248Pipe MajorW. Mackenzie,}1st K.O.S.B.During most of their stay on the Gallipoli peninsula the pipers had to bring up ammunition, rations, stores, etc., a job which was at all times most trying and often extremely hazardous. For conspicuous bravery in charge of these carrying parties the Pipe Major and Piper Maitland were awarded the Military Medal.
During most of their stay on the Gallipoli peninsula the pipers had to bring up ammunition, rations, stores, etc., a job which was at all times most trying and often extremely hazardous. For conspicuous bravery in charge of these carrying parties the Pipe Major and Piper Maitland were awarded the Military Medal.
556 PiperA. Erskine, 5th K.O.S.B.Was mentioned in despatches for gallantry as a stretcher bearer in Gallipoli.
556 PiperA. Erskine, 5th K.O.S.B.
Was mentioned in despatches for gallantry as a stretcher bearer in Gallipoli.
14851 Pipe MajorRobert Mackenzie, 6th K.O.S.B.At the battle of Loos 25th September, 1915, when the battalion went forward to the attack in which it was decimated, the first over the top was the Pipe Major, who started playing at once. He was wounded and fell after a comparatively short distance, but managed to crawl back. His leg had to be amputated, and he died of shock shortly afterwards. Mackenzie was a man of nearly sixty years of age, and had forty-two years' Army service. He was awarded a mention in despatches. Before the action he had been detailed, on account of his age, to be postman, but insisted on going into action.
14851 Pipe MajorRobert Mackenzie, 6th K.O.S.B.
At the battle of Loos 25th September, 1915, when the battalion went forward to the attack in which it was decimated, the first over the top was the Pipe Major, who started playing at once. He was wounded and fell after a comparatively short distance, but managed to crawl back. His leg had to be amputated, and he died of shock shortly afterwards. Mackenzie was a man of nearly sixty years of age, and had forty-two years' Army service. He was awarded a mention in despatches. Before the action he had been detailed, on account of his age, to be postman, but insisted on going into action.
15851 PiperDaniel Laidlaw, V.C., 7th K.O.S.B.Just before the attack on Hill 70 and Loos on 25th September, 1915, the battalion, which was under heavy shell fire, was exposed to a cloud of poison gas. Many of the men succumbed to this gas, and the remainder were shaken by what they were going through. The commanding officer, seeing Laidlaw standing waiting with his pipes for the order to advance, called to him, "Pipe them together, Laidlaw, for God's sake, pipe them together," and he immediately climbed out on to the parapet, and marched up and down, regardless of danger, playing "Blue Bonnets over the Border." The effect on the men was magical; at the same moment the order came to advance, and the officer shouted "Come on, the Borderers, who'll be the first to reach the German trenches?" The survivors of the company swarmed up and over to the assault following the piper. The men were falling all round him, but Laidlaw continued to advance until he got near the German line, when he was wounded and the officer,who was alongside of him, was killed. As he lay on the ground he tried to go on playing, and then managed to get up and hobble after the battalion.He was awarded the Victoria Cross "for most conspicuous gallantry," and the French Croix de Guerre.The sobriquet "Piper of Loos" was commonly applied to Piper Laidlaw; though, in fairness to two other men, it must be admitted that he only shared that distinction with them.
15851 PiperDaniel Laidlaw, V.C., 7th K.O.S.B.
Just before the attack on Hill 70 and Loos on 25th September, 1915, the battalion, which was under heavy shell fire, was exposed to a cloud of poison gas. Many of the men succumbed to this gas, and the remainder were shaken by what they were going through. The commanding officer, seeing Laidlaw standing waiting with his pipes for the order to advance, called to him, "Pipe them together, Laidlaw, for God's sake, pipe them together," and he immediately climbed out on to the parapet, and marched up and down, regardless of danger, playing "Blue Bonnets over the Border." The effect on the men was magical; at the same moment the order came to advance, and the officer shouted "Come on, the Borderers, who'll be the first to reach the German trenches?" The survivors of the company swarmed up and over to the assault following the piper. The men were falling all round him, but Laidlaw continued to advance until he got near the German line, when he was wounded and the officer,who was alongside of him, was killed. As he lay on the ground he tried to go on playing, and then managed to get up and hobble after the battalion.
He was awarded the Victoria Cross "for most conspicuous gallantry," and the French Croix de Guerre.
The sobriquet "Piper of Loos" was commonly applied to Piper Laidlaw; though, in fairness to two other men, it must be admitted that he only shared that distinction with them.
Pipe MajorDouglas Taylor, 7th K.O.S.B.During the attack on Loos when Piper Laidlaw got the V.C., the other pipers were chiefly employed in bringing in the casualties. There were large numbers of men lying about who had been gassed. Pipe Major Taylor, though himself wounded in the hand, continued bringing in these men for thirty-six hours, until he was himself shot down with a bullet in the heart. He recovered ultimately—one of the surgical miracles of the war.
Pipe MajorDouglas Taylor, 7th K.O.S.B.
During the attack on Loos when Piper Laidlaw got the V.C., the other pipers were chiefly employed in bringing in the casualties. There were large numbers of men lying about who had been gassed. Pipe Major Taylor, though himself wounded in the hand, continued bringing in these men for thirty-six hours, until he was himself shot down with a bullet in the heart. He recovered ultimately—one of the surgical miracles of the war.
Pipe MajorW. Robertson, 2nd Scottish Rifles.Was awarded the Military Medal for gallantry in the field.
Pipe MajorW. Robertson, 2nd Scottish Rifles.
Was awarded the Military Medal for gallantry in the field.
Pipe MajorNeil Macleod, 8th Scottish Rifles.Greatly distinguished himself in the Dardanelles fighting in attending on the wounded. He was killed in the attack on 12th July, 1915.
Pipe MajorNeil Macleod, 8th Scottish Rifles.
Greatly distinguished himself in the Dardanelles fighting in attending on the wounded. He was killed in the attack on 12th July, 1915.
40631Corpl.Whitelaw,}17806PiperM'Gurk,}9th Scottish Rifles.In a daylight raid at Arras in February, 1917, these two men played their companies over, standing on the parapet, and then followed them up to the German position.
In a daylight raid at Arras in February, 1917, these two men played their companies over, standing on the parapet, and then followed them up to the German position.
Pipe MajorJ. M'Coll, 10th Scottish Rifles.Was awarded the Military Medal for gallantry during the Somme fighting.
Pipe MajorJ. M'Coll, 10th Scottish Rifles.
Was awarded the Military Medal for gallantry during the Somme fighting.
14631 PiperAlexander Stevenson, 11th Scottish Rifles.On 20th April, 1917, Piper Stevenson observed a comrade, who had been out on a night patrol, lying wounded in No Man's Land, and calling for help. He at once went over the parapet in broad daylight and brought him in, although the Germans brought a machine gun to bear on him as soon as he exposed himself. While assisting the medical officer to dress the wounded man he was killed. His name was mentioned in despatches for gallantry. He had previously done excellent work carrying messages in action.
14631 PiperAlexander Stevenson, 11th Scottish Rifles.
On 20th April, 1917, Piper Stevenson observed a comrade, who had been out on a night patrol, lying wounded in No Man's Land, and calling for help. He at once went over the parapet in broad daylight and brought him in, although the Germans brought a machine gun to bear on him as soon as he exposed himself. While assisting the medical officer to dress the wounded man he was killed. His name was mentioned in despatches for gallantry. He had previously done excellent work carrying messages in action.
PiperAndrew Wishart,}9430PiperW. Stuart,}1st Black Watch.After the failure of the first attack on Richebourg, 9th May, 1915—the attacking battalions simply melting away under a sheet of lead—a second attack on the position was ordered for midday; the leading battalions on this occasion being the 1st Black Watch and 1st Camerons. The men went over the top with a tremendous dash, and each company was led by its pipers. Two at least actually reached the German trenches and continued playing—9430 W. Stuart, and Andrew Wishart of the BlackWatch. They were under very heavy fire, and both got wounded. Wishart fell into a shell hole and lay there for four days before he succeeded in crawling back to our trenches. When he fell there were loud shouts "The piper's down," and the men made frantic efforts to get into the enemy's trenches; but the machine gun fire was too heavy, and they had to withdraw. Piper Stuart was awarded the D.C.M.
After the failure of the first attack on Richebourg, 9th May, 1915—the attacking battalions simply melting away under a sheet of lead—a second attack on the position was ordered for midday; the leading battalions on this occasion being the 1st Black Watch and 1st Camerons. The men went over the top with a tremendous dash, and each company was led by its pipers. Two at least actually reached the German trenches and continued playing—9430 W. Stuart, and Andrew Wishart of the BlackWatch. They were under very heavy fire, and both got wounded. Wishart fell into a shell hole and lay there for four days before he succeeded in crawling back to our trenches. When he fell there were loud shouts "The piper's down," and the men made frantic efforts to get into the enemy's trenches; but the machine gun fire was too heavy, and they had to withdraw. Piper Stuart was awarded the D.C.M.
PiperGeorge Galloway, 7th Black Watch.On one occasion Piper Galloway rescued five men who had been buried by a shell explosion. Subsequently, when employed as a runner, he was called on to deliver an important message under very heavy fire. This he accomplished in almost impossible conditions, and was given the Military Medal.
PiperGeorge Galloway, 7th Black Watch.
On one occasion Piper Galloway rescued five men who had been buried by a shell explosion. Subsequently, when employed as a runner, he was called on to deliver an important message under very heavy fire. This he accomplished in almost impossible conditions, and was given the Military Medal.
L/Corpl.G. Swan, 7th Black Watch.Served in the ranks during the Somme fighting. He was killed in action, and was awarded the Military Medal.
L/Corpl.G. Swan, 7th Black Watch.
Served in the ranks during the Somme fighting. He was killed in action, and was awarded the Military Medal.
1919 PiperAlexander Pratt, 2nd Black Watch.Pipers throughout the war have been employed in a great variety of ways besides piping. Piper Pratt was reported in Mesopotamian Force Despatches as "one of the bravest and most intelligent bomb sergeants in the regiment; on three occasions he has proved his high capacity for leadership in the attack. He has been twice wounded. His power of training grenadiers and his influence over his men are quite exceptional." He was promoted in the field to Sergeant and awarded a D.C.M.
1919 PiperAlexander Pratt, 2nd Black Watch.
Pipers throughout the war have been employed in a great variety of ways besides piping. Piper Pratt was reported in Mesopotamian Force Despatches as "one of the bravest and most intelligent bomb sergeants in the regiment; on three occasions he has proved his high capacity for leadership in the attack. He has been twice wounded. His power of training grenadiers and his influence over his men are quite exceptional." He was promoted in the field to Sergeant and awarded a D.C.M.
941 PiperPeter MacNee, 2nd Black Watch.Also distinguished himself greatly as a bomber. He won the D.C.M. at Neuve Chapelle. In France he was twice wounded, but went to Mesopotamia with the battalion. In the fighting at Sheikh Saad in January, 1916, he was mortally wounded.
941 PiperPeter MacNee, 2nd Black Watch.
Also distinguished himself greatly as a bomber. He won the D.C.M. at Neuve Chapelle. In France he was twice wounded, but went to Mesopotamia with the battalion. In the fighting at Sheikh Saad in January, 1916, he was mortally wounded.
1839PiperAlexander Macdonald,}736PiperDavid Simpson,}365PiperR. Johnstone,}2nd Black Watch.699PiperDavid Armit,}187PiperJ. Galloway,}In the attack by the 2nd Black Watch at Mauquissart, 25th September, 1915, the pipers took a prominent part, playing their companies up to and through the German first and second lines. After three lines had been captured the order to attack the fourth was given. 736 Piper David Simpson at once dashed forward playing, followed by his company; he was killed just as they reached the objective. His bravery earned him the title, for long after, of "The Piper of Loos." He was recommended for the Victoria Cross. Further on, 1839 Piper Alexander Macdonald alternately played from one trench to the next and assisted in bombing the enemy out of their dugouts. In the third trench he marched, playing "Macgregor's Gathering," down the trench at the head of the bombers, and then climbed on to the parapet and continued playing. He was ultimately wounded and lost his leg. For his gallantry he was given the D.C.M., but did not long survive to enjoy the honour as he died soon after his discharge. At the same time 365 Piper R. Johnstone went on playing until hefell gassed. As pipers fell out wounded others took their places, and the battalion was played continuously into and through the action. It appears to have been a tradition among the pipers of this battalion that they were always to play whenever an opportunity occurred. Pipers David Armit and J. Galloway also played right up to and through the German support trenches.
In the attack by the 2nd Black Watch at Mauquissart, 25th September, 1915, the pipers took a prominent part, playing their companies up to and through the German first and second lines. After three lines had been captured the order to attack the fourth was given. 736 Piper David Simpson at once dashed forward playing, followed by his company; he was killed just as they reached the objective. His bravery earned him the title, for long after, of "The Piper of Loos." He was recommended for the Victoria Cross. Further on, 1839 Piper Alexander Macdonald alternately played from one trench to the next and assisted in bombing the enemy out of their dugouts. In the third trench he marched, playing "Macgregor's Gathering," down the trench at the head of the bombers, and then climbed on to the parapet and continued playing. He was ultimately wounded and lost his leg. For his gallantry he was given the D.C.M., but did not long survive to enjoy the honour as he died soon after his discharge. At the same time 365 Piper R. Johnstone went on playing until hefell gassed. As pipers fell out wounded others took their places, and the battalion was played continuously into and through the action. It appears to have been a tradition among the pipers of this battalion that they were always to play whenever an opportunity occurred. Pipers David Armit and J. Galloway also played right up to and through the German support trenches.
1198 Pipe MajorD. M'Leod, 4th Black Watch.Piper M'Leod played his company into action at Loos.During this action the commanding officer was mortally wounded; he was brought in, under intense fire, by Pipe Major—then Corpl. Piper—M'Leod, who received the Military Medal for his gallantry. He subsequently got a bar to the Medal for repeated acts of gallantry during the great advance of 1915.
1198 Pipe MajorD. M'Leod, 4th Black Watch.
Piper M'Leod played his company into action at Loos.
During this action the commanding officer was mortally wounded; he was brought in, under intense fire, by Pipe Major—then Corpl. Piper—M'Leod, who received the Military Medal for his gallantry. He subsequently got a bar to the Medal for repeated acts of gallantry during the great advance of 1915.
410 Pipe MajorAlexander Low, 4th Black Watch.Received the Military Medal for devoted attendance to the wounded at Neuve Chapelle.
410 Pipe MajorAlexander Low, 4th Black Watch.
Received the Military Medal for devoted attendance to the wounded at Neuve Chapelle.
1568 PiperAlexander Howie, 5th Black Watch.At Neuve Chapelle Piper Howie greatly distinguished himself in bringing in casualties. He was killed while performing this duty. Mentioned in despatches.
1568 PiperAlexander Howie, 5th Black Watch.
At Neuve Chapelle Piper Howie greatly distinguished himself in bringing in casualties. He was killed while performing this duty. Mentioned in despatches.
PiperR. Pirnie,}PiperA. Forbes,}6th Black Watch.PiperA. Tainsh,}PiperR. Mapleton,}These men played the battalion in to the attack on High Wood, 14th July, 1916. Though much exposed they escaped unwounded.
These men played the battalion in to the attack on High Wood, 14th July, 1916. Though much exposed they escaped unwounded.
PiperFerguson, 6th Black Watch.At Laventie this man marched from one end of the line to the other playing "Johnny Cope," which aroused the enemy, who, expecting an immediate attack, at once started a barrage. No attack was ever intended.
PiperFerguson, 6th Black Watch.
At Laventie this man marched from one end of the line to the other playing "Johnny Cope," which aroused the enemy, who, expecting an immediate attack, at once started a barrage. No attack was ever intended.
2126 PiperAlasdair M'Donald, 6th Black Watch.Near Laventie in July, 1916, a small patrol of four men operating in No Man's Land ran into some Germans, with the result that two of them were badly wounded and could not get back to our lines. Volunteers were asked for, and M'Donald and another man went out. They met a German patrol anddispersedit, but this at once brought hostile machine gun fire on to them. They had to hunt about for a considerable time in high grass full of barbed wire before finding the wounded men, and, in bringing them back, had to make use of part of a German communication trench. Piper M'Donald was mentioned in despatches.
2126 PiperAlasdair M'Donald, 6th Black Watch.
Near Laventie in July, 1916, a small patrol of four men operating in No Man's Land ran into some Germans, with the result that two of them were badly wounded and could not get back to our lines. Volunteers were asked for, and M'Donald and another man went out. They met a German patrol anddispersedit, but this at once brought hostile machine gun fire on to them. They had to hunt about for a considerable time in high grass full of barbed wire before finding the wounded men, and, in bringing them back, had to make use of part of a German communication trench. Piper M'Donald was mentioned in despatches.
290056Pipe MajorThomas Macdonald,}292440L/Corpl.G. Swan,}7th Black Watch.200509PiperA. Mands,}PiperGeorge Galloway,}All these men received the Military Medal for gallantry in carrying despatches during the Somme actions. On several occasions they performed quite invaluable service in this way.
All these men received the Military Medal for gallantry in carrying despatches during the Somme actions. On several occasions they performed quite invaluable service in this way.
7671 PiperAlexander Henderson, 1st Cameron Highlanders.On October 22nd, 1914, Piper Henderson went out to an officer of the battalion who was lying wounded in a very exposed position, and applied first field dressings. He then helped this officer back to our position under heavy machine gun fire and then returned to his duty in the ranks. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
7671 PiperAlexander Henderson, 1st Cameron Highlanders.
On October 22nd, 1914, Piper Henderson went out to an officer of the battalion who was lying wounded in a very exposed position, and applied first field dressings. He then helped this officer back to our position under heavy machine gun fire and then returned to his duty in the ranks. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
Sergt.Johnson, 2nd Cameron Highlanders.Received the Military Medal for conspicuous gallantry on the night of 11th March, 1917, when on a reconnoitring patrol on the Struma. He killed the enemy's sentry before he had time to warn his group, thus enabling the party to account successfully for five out of seven of the enemy. Also for continuous good work as sergeant in charge of regimental scouts.As scout sergeant he subsequently still further distinguished himself, and by his initiative and daring in incessant patrol work, materially assisted in gaining complete ascendancy over all the ground between our own and the Bulgar trenches. "His display of daring, initiative and courage has been a splendid example to all the men under him."
Sergt.Johnson, 2nd Cameron Highlanders.
Received the Military Medal for conspicuous gallantry on the night of 11th March, 1917, when on a reconnoitring patrol on the Struma. He killed the enemy's sentry before he had time to warn his group, thus enabling the party to account successfully for five out of seven of the enemy. Also for continuous good work as sergeant in charge of regimental scouts.
As scout sergeant he subsequently still further distinguished himself, and by his initiative and daring in incessant patrol work, materially assisted in gaining complete ascendancy over all the ground between our own and the Bulgar trenches. "His display of daring, initiative and courage has been a splendid example to all the men under him."
56 Pipe MajorJohn Ross, 4th Cameron Highlanders.Played the battalion to the attack at Festubert on 17th May, 1915, along with the other pipers of the battalion.
56 Pipe MajorJohn Ross, 4th Cameron Highlanders.
Played the battalion to the attack at Festubert on 17th May, 1915, along with the other pipers of the battalion.
17128 PiperJ. Scobie, Cameron Highlanders.Obtained the M.M., D.C.M. for gallantry in action.
17128 PiperJ. Scobie, Cameron Highlanders.
Obtained the M.M., D.C.M. for gallantry in action.
9158 Acting Pipe MajorJ. MacLellan, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.During the advance in Mesopotamia ammunition happened to run short at a point only 50 yards removed from the Turk trenches. MacLellan at once volunteered to fetch some, and was killed as he was bringing it up.
9158 Acting Pipe MajorJ. MacLellan, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.
During the advance in Mesopotamia ammunition happened to run short at a point only 50 yards removed from the Turk trenches. MacLellan at once volunteered to fetch some, and was killed as he was bringing it up.
8391 Pipe MajorD. Mathieson, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.Was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal "for gallant conduct on many occasions in conveying messages under heavy fire, and also for gallantry in attending on the wounded on an exposed part of the line."
8391 Pipe MajorD. Mathieson, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.
Was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal "for gallant conduct on many occasions in conveying messages under heavy fire, and also for gallantry in attending on the wounded on an exposed part of the line."
9446 Pipe MajorNeil M'Kechnie, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.During the engagement at Sheikh Saad on 7th January, 1916, the battalion had to advance for a long distance over perfectly flat country under very heavy fire. Casualties among our men were very numerous. The pipe major and Pipers Colin M'Kay and Alex. M'Kay at once started playing "Caber Feidh," and continued to do so for some time. M'Kechnie and Alex. M'Kay were both wounded.At Neuve Chapelle M'Kechnie had distinguished himself as a bomber, and was mentioned in despatches and awarded the Russian Order of St. George.
9446 Pipe MajorNeil M'Kechnie, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.
During the engagement at Sheikh Saad on 7th January, 1916, the battalion had to advance for a long distance over perfectly flat country under very heavy fire. Casualties among our men were very numerous. The pipe major and Pipers Colin M'Kay and Alex. M'Kay at once started playing "Caber Feidh," and continued to do so for some time. M'Kechnie and Alex. M'Kay were both wounded.
At Neuve Chapelle M'Kechnie had distinguished himself as a bomber, and was mentioned in despatches and awarded the Russian Order of St. George.
766 Pipe MajorMackenzie, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.Was mentioned in despatches for gallantry in Palestine.
766 Pipe MajorMackenzie, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.
Was mentioned in despatches for gallantry in Palestine.
412 PiperWilliam Barry, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.Went out into No Man's Land under heavy machine gun fire to the assistance of a wounded comrade who was lying unable to move, and whose clothing had caught fire. Piper Barry was recommended for the D.C.M.; he was mentioned in despatches.
412 PiperWilliam Barry, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.
Went out into No Man's Land under heavy machine gun fire to the assistance of a wounded comrade who was lying unable to move, and whose clothing had caught fire. Piper Barry was recommended for the D.C.M.; he was mentioned in despatches.
529 PiperColin M'Kay, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.During the advance at Sheikh Saad some of the pipers had to bring up ammunition. The Turkish barrage was generally late and missed the advancing battalion, but came down behind it; this resulted in severe casualties among ammunition parties. Piper M'Kay was specially promoted on the field for gallantry in performing duty as an ammunition carrier.
529 PiperColin M'Kay, 1st Seaforth Highlanders.
During the advance at Sheikh Saad some of the pipers had to bring up ammunition. The Turkish barrage was generally late and missed the advancing battalion, but came down behind it; this resulted in severe casualties among ammunition parties. Piper M'Kay was specially promoted on the field for gallantry in performing duty as an ammunition carrier.
201307 PiperP. Stewart, 4th Seaforth Highlanders.A company on the Ypres sector in September, 1917, had to advance a distance of nearly two miles over flooded ground badly cut up by our artillery. The men were very heavily laden with extra ammunition, bombs, etc.; Piper Stewart played them along until he fell and damaged his pipes. When they reached their position volunteers were called for to go out and try to establish communication with the brigade on the left, whose position was not known. Piper Stewart went out and performed this task, but was badly wounded in the arm. He had previously done excellent work in collecting casualties and putting them in an abandoned gun emplacement. He was awarded the Military Medal.
201307 PiperP. Stewart, 4th Seaforth Highlanders.
A company on the Ypres sector in September, 1917, had to advance a distance of nearly two miles over flooded ground badly cut up by our artillery. The men were very heavily laden with extra ammunition, bombs, etc.; Piper Stewart played them along until he fell and damaged his pipes. When they reached their position volunteers were called for to go out and try to establish communication with the brigade on the left, whose position was not known. Piper Stewart went out and performed this task, but was badly wounded in the arm. He had previously done excellent work in collecting casualties and putting them in an abandoned gun emplacement. He was awarded the Military Medal.
599 PiperDonald M'Kay, 5th Seaforth Highlanders.Was killed at Beaumont Hamel when carrying despatches. His C.O. said of him, "It was by devotion such as his that victory was bestowed on us that day."
599 PiperDonald M'Kay, 5th Seaforth Highlanders.
Was killed at Beaumont Hamel when carrying despatches. His C.O. said of him, "It was by devotion such as his that victory was bestowed on us that day."
21629PiperD. Fraser,}4661PiperB. Hamilton,}7th Seaforth Highlanders.In the attack at Loos, when the battalion was played in by their pipers, most of these men were killed or wounded. At one time the position became very serious and the advance was checked. Pipers Fraser and Hamilton at once got up into the open and started playing "Caber Feidh"; the effect was very marked as their companies dashed forward after them. They were both killed.
In the attack at Loos, when the battalion was played in by their pipers, most of these men were killed or wounded. At one time the position became very serious and the advance was checked. Pipers Fraser and Hamilton at once got up into the open and started playing "Caber Feidh"; the effect was very marked as their companies dashed forward after them. They were both killed.
8535 PiperD. Davidson, 7th Seaforth Highlanders.This man, when serving in the ranks, showed such gallantry and initiative that he received both the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the Military Medal.
8535 PiperD. Davidson, 7th Seaforth Highlanders.
This man, when serving in the ranks, showed such gallantry and initiative that he received both the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the Military Medal.
8112 Pipe MajorAlexander Mackenzie, 8th Seaforth Highlanders.At Loos, when the battalion was played into action, there were very heavy losses among the pipers. Pipe Major Mackenzie distinguished himself greatly, and was given the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
8112 Pipe MajorAlexander Mackenzie, 8th Seaforth Highlanders.
At Loos, when the battalion was played into action, there were very heavy losses among the pipers. Pipe Major Mackenzie distinguished himself greatly, and was given the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
8119 Pipe MajorG. Gordon, 9th Seaforth Highlanders.Played the battalion into action at Longueval on 14th July, 1916, and was awarded the Belgian Croix de Guerre.
8119 Pipe MajorG. Gordon, 9th Seaforth Highlanders.
Played the battalion into action at Longueval on 14th July, 1916, and was awarded the Belgian Croix de Guerre.
5745 PiperCharles M'Lellan, 9th Seaforth Highlanders.At the battle of Loos he was acting as orderly to his captain; as they got over the parapet the officer was hit, and died a few minutes afterwards. Piper M'Lellan then reported himself to another officer who sent him back, under heavy fire, for reinforcements. Having done this several times, he went to look for his captain and brought in his body. He was awarded the Military Medal.
5745 PiperCharles M'Lellan, 9th Seaforth Highlanders.
At the battle of Loos he was acting as orderly to his captain; as they got over the parapet the officer was hit, and died a few minutes afterwards. Piper M'Lellan then reported himself to another officer who sent him back, under heavy fire, for reinforcements. Having done this several times, he went to look for his captain and brought in his body. He was awarded the Military Medal.
10744 CorporalA. Godsman, 1st Highland Light Infantry.During the action at Neuve Chapelle he repeatedly brought up ammunition to the firing line under the heaviest fire, until he was wounded. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the Russian Order of St. George.
10744 CorporalA. Godsman, 1st Highland Light Infantry.
During the action at Neuve Chapelle he repeatedly brought up ammunition to the firing line under the heaviest fire, until he was wounded. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the Russian Order of St. George.
11480 PiperJohn Brodie, 2nd Highland Light Infantry.This man was one of the party with the late Col. W. L. Brodie when that officer won the V.C.
11480 PiperJohn Brodie, 2nd Highland Light Infantry.
This man was one of the party with the late Col. W. L. Brodie when that officer won the V.C.
240881 PiperWilliam Mackenzie, 6th Highland Light Infantry.In the action of 12th July, 1915, in which the battalion captured three lines of Turkish trenches in Gallipoli, Piper Mackenzie went into action armed with a revolver and a shovel, displaying great gallantry and doing great execution with both these weapons until he was wounded.
240881 PiperWilliam Mackenzie, 6th Highland Light Infantry.
In the action of 12th July, 1915, in which the battalion captured three lines of Turkish trenches in Gallipoli, Piper Mackenzie went into action armed with a revolver and a shovel, displaying great gallantry and doing great execution with both these weapons until he was wounded.
1914 PiperKenneth MacLennan, 7th Highland Light Infantry.Was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal "for playing the pipes during the attack (on the Turkish trenches, 12th July, 1915) and advancing with the line after his pipes had been shattered by shrapnel, and heartening the wounded under fire" (London Gazette). After his pipes had been broken he continued to play on his chanter for some time. He then made several journeys across the open to fetch water for the wounded under heavy fire; and also brought up boxes of ammunition.
1914 PiperKenneth MacLennan, 7th Highland Light Infantry.
Was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal "for playing the pipes during the attack (on the Turkish trenches, 12th July, 1915) and advancing with the line after his pipes had been shattered by shrapnel, and heartening the wounded under fire" (London Gazette). After his pipes had been broken he continued to play on his chanter for some time. He then made several journeys across the open to fetch water for the wounded under heavy fire; and also brought up boxes of ammunition.
1901 PiperD. Cameron, 7th Highland Light Infantry.In the attack on the Turkish trenches on 12th July, 1915, Piper Cameron played his company right up to the captured trenches and was awarded a special mention in Divisional Orders (52nd Division). On this occasion, while playing, he had a revolver hanging from his wrist, and on reaching the trenches started using it with good effect.
1901 PiperD. Cameron, 7th Highland Light Infantry.
In the attack on the Turkish trenches on 12th July, 1915, Piper Cameron played his company right up to the captured trenches and was awarded a special mention in Divisional Orders (52nd Division). On this occasion, while playing, he had a revolver hanging from his wrist, and on reaching the trenches started using it with good effect.
PiperDonald Macfarlane, 7th Highland Light Infantry.In the same action in Gallipoli on 12th July, 1915, Piper Macfarlane played his company through a bayonet charge and continued doing so until a shell burst shattered his pipe drones. He then devoted himself to giving water to the wounded.
PiperDonald Macfarlane, 7th Highland Light Infantry.
In the same action in Gallipoli on 12th July, 1915, Piper Macfarlane played his company through a bayonet charge and continued doing so until a shell burst shattered his pipe drones. He then devoted himself to giving water to the wounded.
Corpl. PiperAllan M'Nicol, 12th Highland Light Infantry.During the fighting at Loos and Hill 70 Corpl. M'Nicol was employed carrying an artillery observation flag, and signalling successive positions to our guns as they were captured. For his gallantry in action he was awarded the Military Medal.
Corpl. PiperAllan M'Nicol, 12th Highland Light Infantry.
During the fighting at Loos and Hill 70 Corpl. M'Nicol was employed carrying an artillery observation flag, and signalling successive positions to our guns as they were captured. For his gallantry in action he was awarded the Military Medal.
15006 Pipe MajorWilliam M'Comb, 16th Highland Light Infantry.On 14th February, 1916, the Pipe Major, though stunned and sick from a blowby a branch of a tree which had been hit by a shell, went forward and dug out several men who had been buried. There was heavy shell fire at the time. He was given the Military Medal.
15006 Pipe MajorWilliam M'Comb, 16th Highland Light Infantry.
On 14th February, 1916, the Pipe Major, though stunned and sick from a blowby a branch of a tree which had been hit by a shell, went forward and dug out several men who had been buried. There was heavy shell fire at the time. He was given the Military Medal.
12095 Piper (Pipe Major)Thomas Richardson, 16th Highland Light Infantry.Was awarded the Military Medal for gallant conduct at Roupy in the night of 2nd April, 1917, when the company in support was heavily shelled and casualties were heavy. "Pipe Major Richardson organised carrying parties and showed an utter disregard of danger under the continuous fire of heavy guns."
12095 Piper (Pipe Major)Thomas Richardson, 16th Highland Light Infantry.
Was awarded the Military Medal for gallant conduct at Roupy in the night of 2nd April, 1917, when the company in support was heavily shelled and casualties were heavy. "Pipe Major Richardson organised carrying parties and showed an utter disregard of danger under the continuous fire of heavy guns."