World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Armadale, Scotland he joined The Highland Light Infantry during the beginning of World War I. Later, the HLI unit was transferred to the 8th Royal Scots as they had suffered many causalities and were in urgent need of help. On June 12, 1915, while under very heavy bomb and artillery fire, he voluntarily left the safety of his trench to rescue a wounded officer who was laying within a few yards of the enemy line. While pulling his comrade to safety, he received about 40 wounds to his own body. Once both men were safe, the young Lance-Corporal was taken to a military hospital where he spent the next two months recovering from his injuries. On August 30. 1915, King George V presented him with the Victoria Cross, which is the highest and most prestigious award that can be given to a British soldier. After he returned to Carluke, he was given a hero's welcome and became president of Carluke Rovers, FC, a position he held until his death. Today, his Victoria Cross is on display at the National War Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh Castle, Scotland.
World War I Victoria Cross Recipient. Born in Armadale, Scotland he joined The Highland Light Infantry during the beginning of World War I. Later, the HLI unit was transferred to the 8th Royal Scots as they had suffered many causalities and were in urgent need of help. On June 12, 1915, while under very heavy bomb and artillery fire, he voluntarily left the safety of his trench to rescue a wounded officer who was laying within a few yards of the enemy line. While pulling his comrade to safety, he received about 40 wounds to his own body. Once both men were safe, the young Lance-Corporal was taken to a military hospital where he spent the next two months recovering from his injuries. On August 30. 1915, King George V presented him with the Victoria Cross, which is the highest and most prestigious award that can be given to a British soldier. After he returned to Carluke, he was given a hero's welcome and became president of Carluke Rovers, FC, a position he held until his death. Today, his Victoria Cross is on display at the National War Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh Castle, Scotland.
Bio by: Whispers From The Grave
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