Thomson, George Edwin

Details
Category: 1918-19

George Edwin Thomson

RAF

Royal Air Force
He is remembered with honour on the Scottish National War Memorial, Allan Glen’s School Book of Remembrance, University of Glasgow Roll of Honour, St Michaels and All Angels memorial, Helensburgh and Gareloch Unionist Association Roll of Honour and Helensburgh War Memorial, Column 4 Line 33.

The family home was Glenfuelan, Millig Street, Helensburgh. The son of James and Ellen Thomson
Siblings: George was an only son. 

George Thomson was born in Rangoon, Burma where his father worked. Moving to Helensburgh, he was educated at Hermitage Higher Grade School, Allan Glens School in Glasgow and Glenalmond School in Perthshire before going to Glasgow University, studying for the civil service. He was a member of the local swimming club and played rugby.
George was commissioned into the King’s Own Scottish Borderers, directly from University, before joining the R.A.F. During his time in France, he brought down 21 German planes. Fighting against the famous Red Baron over Ypres. He received the Military Cross and the Distinguished Service Order, both for 'Conspicuous Gallantry and Devotion to Duty'.
George died, when his plane burst into flames and crashed, at Port Meadow, Wolvercote after refuelling. He was 21 years old. 

Thomson, William

Details
Category: 1918-19

William Thomson

Argylls

9th Batt. Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
He is remembered with honour on the Arras Memorial, the Scottish National War Memorial, the Congregational Church memorial and Helensburgh War Memorial, Column 4 Line 34.

The family home was 31, West Princes Street, Helensburgh. The son of Thomas and Jane Thompson, 129, Ward Street, Kalgoorie, Western Australia.
Siblings:  William had one older brother, Samuel, and two older sisters.

 William Thomson was born in Helensburgh, where his father was a baker. On leaving school, William followed his father into the trade. At some point the family emigrated to Australia and it is not known whether William remained in Scotland with relatives or returned to enlist.
He enlisted in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and served as a stretcher bearer.
William died, killed in action, at Arras at the age of 22. His remains were not recovered.

Stewart, Alexander Leitch

Details
Category: 1918-19

Alexander Leitch Stewart

Argylls

7th Batt. Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
He is remembered with honour on Arras Memorial, the Scottish National War Memorial, Larchfield School Memorial, St Andrew’s Church Roll of Honour and Helensburgh War Memorial, Column 4 Line 31.

The family home was Braeburn, 58 Campbell Street, Helensburgh. The son of Thomas and Elizabeth Stewart.
Siblings: Alexander had two brothers, Archibald and John, and two sisters, Agnes and Annie..

 

Alexander Stewart was born in Helensburgh, where his father was a housebuilder and factor. He was one of twins with brother John. He was educated at Larchfield School and went on to become an apprentice joiner. He enjoyed rugby and cricket.
Alexander firstly joined the 9th Batt. of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, later transferring to the 7th Batt. Alexander died, killed in action, at Arras. He was 26 years of age. His remains were not recovered.

Spy, Bruce Carstairs

Details
Category: 1918-19

Bruce Carstairs Spy

Cameronians

10th Batt. Cameron Highlanders
He is remembered with honour on the St Columba’s Church Roll of Honour, Helensburgh and Gareloch Unionist Association Roll of Honour and Helensburgh War Memorial, Column 4 Line 30.

The family home was 12, Glennan Gardens, Helensburgh The son of the late Robert and Mrs Margaret Spy
Siblings: Bruce had two brothers, Andrew and Robert, and three sisters, Jasemina, Louise and Jean.

Bruce Spiers

Bruce Spy was born in Helensburgh and educated at Hermitage Higher Grade School. He was employed with his brother, Andrew Spy, Coal Merchants, in the town before joining up.

He enlisted in the 3rd Batt. Scottish Horse in August 1915, serving in Gallipoli and Egypt before transferring to the Cameron Highlanders and serving in Serbia. He received the Military Medal for Bravery in the Field and the Cross of Kara-Georg (2nd class), given by the King of Serbia for distinguished service.

After being discharged due to a wound in his foot, Bruce died at home from malaria, influenza and pneumonia. He is buried in Rhu Churchyard.

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