Seaman NORMAN MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 25 Swordale
Son of Donald and Mary Macleod, of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
Service: Royal Naval Reserve
Service number: D/X10610D
Date of death: 23 November 1939 at the age of 31
Lost on HMS Rawalpindi, sunk in North Atlantic after engaging German battlecruisers Scharnhorst and Gneisenau
Memorial: Plymouth Naval, panel 35, column 3
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
Stornoway Gazette, 8 December 1939
In the House of Commons last week the Prime Minister paid tribute to the
naval reservists and pensioners of HM auxiliary cruiser "Rawalpindi"
whose heroic fight against two German pocket battleships has aroused the
admiration of the whole world.
"These men might have known as soon as they sighted the enemy that there
was no chance", said Mr Chamberlain. "But they had no thought of
surrender. They fired their guns until they could be fired no more, and
many of them went to their deaths thereby carrying on the great
tradition of the Royal Navy. Their example will be an inspiration to
those who come after them."
Twelve at least of these gallant men were fellow islanders of ours, and
the whole community shares the sorrow of their relatives at home, a
sorrow which may be lightened at times by the flickering hope that they
are still alive, although prisoners in the hands of the enemy, but
which which is more likely to be tormented by fears and doubts that are
more poignant than certainty.
There may be those in the crowded cities, lying under the terror of air
raids, who turn wistful eyes towards the peaceful islands of the west,
out of the danger zone, a sanctuary in the midst of the storm. But
while these islands may be relatively safe from direct attack, and
there is no need to carry gas masks to one's daily work, or dig air
raid shelters in the streets, they are contributing more towards the
defence of the Empire than most other communities of the same size.
In the "Courageous", the "Royal Oak", the "Northern Rover" and in other
losses the details of which are not known, men from these islands have
already forfeited their lives, and in many of the disasters which have
overtaken our merchant fleet. Lewis and Harris lads have conducted
themselves with tenacity and courage. There were three in the "Athenia",
ten in the "Lochavon" out of a total deck complement of sixteen and
one in the "Arlington Court", a modest youth from Calbost who is now
at home recuperating at home from the effects of six days' exposure in
an open boat.
No one would claim for these men least of themselves, that they are
struck from a finer die than the rest of humanity or moulded of a nobler
clay, but one can without any sense of boastfulness that when the
nation is at war, the small crofting and fishing communities of the
northern Scottish seaboard have a contribution to make to the fighting
forces which is out of all proportion to their population or their
wealth.
The name of "Rawalpindi" is in our minds today. In the past it was known
as that of the largest garrison town in the whole of India, "the key
to the British system of defence in the North-West Frontier", but now
the name has other associations for us and for the world. Let those who
today feel pride in the gallant heroes of the "Rawalpindi" remember,
when the strife is over and the wounds have healed, that many of those
who died in that desperate encounter were men from another North-West
frontier, which is seldom mentioned in the history books, but whose sons
have done more than most to man the garrisons of the Empire".
John Mackenzie, 21 Swordale
Seaman JOHN MACKENZIE
Last address in Lewis: 21 Swordale
Son of Mr. and Mrs. Donald MacKenzie, of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
Service: Royal Naval Reserve
Service number: D/X10303B
Date of death: 23 November 1939 at the age of 26
Lost on HMS Rawalpindi, sunk in North Atlantic after engaging German battlecruisers Scharnhorst and Gneisenau
Memorial: Plymouth Naval, panel 35, column 3
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
Stornoway Gazette, 8 December 1939
In the House of Commons last week the Prime Minister paid tribute to the naval reservists and pensioners of HM auxiliary cruiser "Rawalpindi" whose heroic fight against two German pocket battleships has aroused the admiration of the whole world.
"These men might have known as soon as they sighted the enemy that there was no chance", said Mr Chamberlain. "But they had no thought of surrender. They fired their guns until they could be fired no more, and many of them went to their deaths thereby carrying on the great tradition of the Royal Navy. Their example will be an inspiration to those who come after them."
Twelve at least of these gallant men were fellow islanders of ours, and the whole community shares the sorrow of their relatives at home, a sorrow which may be lightened at times by the flickering hope that they are still alive, although prisoners in the hands of the enemy, but which which is more likely to be tormented by fears and doubts that are more poignant than certainty.
There may be those in the crowded cities, lying under the terror of air raids, who turn wistful eyes towards the peaceful islands of the west, out of the danger zone, a sanctuary in the midst of the storm. But while these islands may be relatively safe from direct attack, and there is no need to carry gas masks to one's daily work, or dig air raid shelters in the streets, they are contributing more towards the defence of the Empire than most other communities of the same size.
In the "Courageous", the "Royal Oak", the "Northern Rover" and in other losses the details of which are not known, men from these islands have already forfeited their lives, and in many of the disasters which have overtaken our merchant fleet. Lewis and Harris lads have conducted themselves with tenacity and courage. There were three in the "Athenia", ten in the "Lochavon" out of a total deck complement of sixteen and one in the "Arlington Court", a modest youth from Calbost who is now at home recuperating at home from the effects of six days' exposure in an open boat.
No one would claim for these men least of themselves, that they are struck from a finer die than the rest of humanity or moulded of a nobler clay, but one can without any sense of boastfulness that when the nation is at war, the small crofting and fishing communities of the northern Scottish seaboard have a contribution to make to the fighting forces which is out of all proportion to their population or their wealth.
The name of "Rawalpindi" is in our minds today. In the past it was known as that of the largest garrison town in the whole of India, "the key to the British system of defence in the North-West Frontier", but now the name has other associations for us and for the world. Let those who today feel pride in the gallant heroes of the "Rawalpindi" remember, when the strife is over and the wounds have healed, that many of those who died in that desperate encounter were men from another North-West frontier, which is seldom mentioned in the history books, but whose sons have done more than most to man the garrisons of the Empire".
Last address in Lewis: 21 Swordale
Son of Mr. and Mrs. Donald MacKenzie, of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
Service: Royal Naval Reserve
Service number: D/X10303B
Date of death: 23 November 1939 at the age of 26
Lost on HMS Rawalpindi, sunk in North Atlantic after engaging German battlecruisers Scharnhorst and Gneisenau
Memorial: Plymouth Naval, panel 35, column 3
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
Stornoway Gazette, 8 December 1939
In the House of Commons last week the Prime Minister paid tribute to the naval reservists and pensioners of HM auxiliary cruiser "Rawalpindi" whose heroic fight against two German pocket battleships has aroused the admiration of the whole world.
"These men might have known as soon as they sighted the enemy that there was no chance", said Mr Chamberlain. "But they had no thought of surrender. They fired their guns until they could be fired no more, and many of them went to their deaths thereby carrying on the great tradition of the Royal Navy. Their example will be an inspiration to those who come after them."
Twelve at least of these gallant men were fellow islanders of ours, and the whole community shares the sorrow of their relatives at home, a sorrow which may be lightened at times by the flickering hope that they are still alive, although prisoners in the hands of the enemy, but which which is more likely to be tormented by fears and doubts that are more poignant than certainty.
There may be those in the crowded cities, lying under the terror of air raids, who turn wistful eyes towards the peaceful islands of the west, out of the danger zone, a sanctuary in the midst of the storm. But while these islands may be relatively safe from direct attack, and there is no need to carry gas masks to one's daily work, or dig air raid shelters in the streets, they are contributing more towards the defence of the Empire than most other communities of the same size.
In the "Courageous", the "Royal Oak", the "Northern Rover" and in other losses the details of which are not known, men from these islands have already forfeited their lives, and in many of the disasters which have overtaken our merchant fleet. Lewis and Harris lads have conducted themselves with tenacity and courage. There were three in the "Athenia", ten in the "Lochavon" out of a total deck complement of sixteen and one in the "Arlington Court", a modest youth from Calbost who is now at home recuperating at home from the effects of six days' exposure in an open boat.
No one would claim for these men least of themselves, that they are struck from a finer die than the rest of humanity or moulded of a nobler clay, but one can without any sense of boastfulness that when the nation is at war, the small crofting and fishing communities of the northern Scottish seaboard have a contribution to make to the fighting forces which is out of all proportion to their population or their wealth.
The name of "Rawalpindi" is in our minds today. In the past it was known as that of the largest garrison town in the whole of India, "the key to the British system of defence in the North-West Frontier", but now the name has other associations for us and for the world. Let those who today feel pride in the gallant heroes of the "Rawalpindi" remember, when the strife is over and the wounds have healed, that many of those who died in that desperate encounter were men from another North-West frontier, which is seldom mentioned in the history books, but whose sons have done more than most to man the garrisons of the Empire".
Murdo Mackenzie, 21 Swordale
Seaman MURDO MACKENZIE
Last address in Lewis: 21 Swordale
Son of Donald and Catherine Mackenzie, of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
Service: Royal Naval Reserve
Service number: LT/X8100C
Date of death: 3 November 1939 at the age of 28
Lost on active service at North Shields
Interred: Tynemouth (Preston) Cemetery, Sec. F. Uncons. grave 11835
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
Stornoway Gazette, 10 November 1939
It is with regret we record the death of Murdo Mackenzie, son of Donald Mackenzie, 21 Swordale, who was drowned last week, while on active service. Beyond the intimation of his death, no information has yet been received. Murdo, who was about 29 years of age, had been a reservist for more than five years. He was called up at the outbreak of war, but was given an extension on medical grounds, and left home only about a month ago for his war station. He was one of the reservists, mobilised in the crisis of September 1938, and was on service then for a period of three weeks. In civil life, Murdo was a bus driver, being employed for the past two and a half years with Mr Maciver, Swordale, who found him a very efficient and reliable servant. He was extraordinarily popular with the travelling public, because of his great cheerfulness and willingness. He never refused to do a good turn for anyone who approached him. Apart from the pasengers using his bus, he was known by many of the shopkeepers in town with whom he did business on behalf of others, and all of them speak of him in the highest terms. He was a member of the Point Football Committee, and one of the enthusiasts who did much for the development of the game in rural Lewis. He frequently travelled with the Point eleven for their fixtures in other parts of the island, so that he had acquaintances in every district, who join with his more immediate friends in Swordale and his family in lamenting his early death. Much sympathy is felt for his father his sole surviving brother, his stepmother and stepsisters in their bereavement. An older brother, Donald, died in America just about two years ago, while his surviving brother is at present on service as a naval reservist.
Transcriber's note: Other tributes were published in subsequent editions of the Gazette, in memory of "Murd".
Last address in Lewis: 21 Swordale
Son of Donald and Catherine Mackenzie, of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
Service: Royal Naval Reserve
Service number: LT/X8100C
Date of death: 3 November 1939 at the age of 28
Lost on active service at North Shields
Interred: Tynemouth (Preston) Cemetery, Sec. F. Uncons. grave 11835
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
Stornoway Gazette, 10 November 1939
It is with regret we record the death of Murdo Mackenzie, son of Donald Mackenzie, 21 Swordale, who was drowned last week, while on active service. Beyond the intimation of his death, no information has yet been received. Murdo, who was about 29 years of age, had been a reservist for more than five years. He was called up at the outbreak of war, but was given an extension on medical grounds, and left home only about a month ago for his war station. He was one of the reservists, mobilised in the crisis of September 1938, and was on service then for a period of three weeks. In civil life, Murdo was a bus driver, being employed for the past two and a half years with Mr Maciver, Swordale, who found him a very efficient and reliable servant. He was extraordinarily popular with the travelling public, because of his great cheerfulness and willingness. He never refused to do a good turn for anyone who approached him. Apart from the pasengers using his bus, he was known by many of the shopkeepers in town with whom he did business on behalf of others, and all of them speak of him in the highest terms. He was a member of the Point Football Committee, and one of the enthusiasts who did much for the development of the game in rural Lewis. He frequently travelled with the Point eleven for their fixtures in other parts of the island, so that he had acquaintances in every district, who join with his more immediate friends in Swordale and his family in lamenting his early death. Much sympathy is felt for his father his sole surviving brother, his stepmother and stepsisters in their bereavement. An older brother, Donald, died in America just about two years ago, while his surviving brother is at present on service as a naval reservist.
Transcriber's note: Other tributes were published in subsequent editions of the Gazette, in memory of "Murd".
John Martin Macleod, 7 Swordale
Private JOHN MARTIN MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 7 Swordale
Son of John Macleod and of Mary Macleod (nee Stewart), of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
Service: Pioneer Corps
Service number: 13061491
Date of death: 1 January 1943 at the age of 31
Killed in action in North Africa
Interred: Suez War Memorial Cemetery, grave 2. E. 8.
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
Last address in Lewis: 7 Swordale
Son of John Macleod and of Mary Macleod (nee Stewart), of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
Service: Pioneer Corps
Service number: 13061491
Date of death: 1 January 1943 at the age of 31
Killed in action in North Africa
Interred: Suez War Memorial Cemetery, grave 2. E. 8.
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
John Angus Murray, 3 Newlands, Shulishader
Assistant Steward JOHN ANGUS MURRAY
Last address in Lewis: 3 Newlands, Shulishader
Son of Donald and Catherine Murray.
Service: Merchant Navy
Date of death: 20 March 1941 at the age of 24
Lost on Clan Ogilvy, sunk north of Cape Verde Islands
Memorial: Tower Hill, panel 30
Stornoway Gazette, 6 June 1941
It was with great regret many friends learned that John Angus Murray, 8 Newlands, Shader, Point, had made the supreme sacrifice. John Angus, who was in the Merchant Service, was 24 years of age. He has been reported lost at sea. A very popular young man, he played football both for the Nicolson Institute and for Point XI. On completing his secondary course at the Nicolson, he entered Glasgow University, where he took an Arts degree.
Deep concern and anxiety was felt in Shader when it became known some time ago, through the press, that the ship on which John Angus Murray [3 Newlands Shader, Point] was sailing had been sunk through enemy action. As however no official intimation was received at the time, hope were entertained that he might possibly be among the survivors, but these hopes were shattered when his mother was later officially informed that her son had been lost at sea. This news cast great glooom over the whole community where John Angus was a much esteemed and popular youth. He was a fine type of Lewis man, dignified in bearing, upright in character and of strapping build, He was only 24. How little we thought when he left us a year last autumn to complete his studies at Glasgow University that he would never return. Anxious to do his bit for King and country, he entered upon a course of training in a gunnery school last year, and on the completion of his training joined this ill-fated ship as a gunner. John Angus was a youth of exceptionall fine qualities which endeared him to everyone in the community, old and young alike. His pleasant smile, his ready with and quiet nature, will be missed by all. A hard-working and diligent youth, he was always ready to help when help was needed. He was a fine athlete and a brilliant footballer, and many football fans throughout the island, particularly on the West Side, will have recollections of John Angie Dollag's superb goal keeping for Point in the good old days of peace. Indeed, it is difficult for us, who were always in his company, to contemplate the loss of a powerful fellow like him whose presence we always desired and looked for in our company. However greatly we miss home, much more shall those who were near and dear to him, who looked on him as the mainstay of the family and whose welfare was always his first consideration. To his widowed mother and sisters at home and away the profound sympathy of the entire community is extended, in the irreparable loss of a dutiful son and brother whose memory will always remain cherished in their hearts.
Stornoway Gazette, 11 July 1941
From a Lewisman on active service, this tribute to a popular Point lad who gave his life for freedom:
The whole of Point, and I believe most of Lewis Island, heard with great regret of the loss of such a popular lad as John Angus Murray, 3 Newlands, Shader, Point. Great Sympathy was felt in the district for his sorrowing mother and sisters. John Angie Dollag, as he was commonly called, was a real son of Lewis, Despite the fact that he had taken up a University career, he could not get rid of that yearning for the sea and the pure, patriotic spirit seeking no reward, which is characteristic of the best Lewisman. Little did we know and little did he, that he was destined for an ill-fated ship; but he had to goto sea, as he knew it was his duty and calling to do so. John Angie liked to be in the thick of the fray, and made a good fight of everything he tackled. This could not be more clearly shown than on the football field. When he was a member of the Point eleven, and later of the Nicolson Institute eleven, he always played a hard and plucky game from start to finish. There was no half-heartedness about him. I am certain he showed the same spirit in sterner tasks and that he bravely met his death. The stock from which he sprung, on both is father's and mother's side, were well-known for their hardiness and endurance. He was a lad who made many friends, and possessed all the qualities which make us so proud of our Lewis servicemen. The village of Shader must greatly miss such a well-liked lad as he.
Last address in Lewis: 3 Newlands, Shulishader
Son of Donald and Catherine Murray.
Service: Merchant Navy
Date of death: 20 March 1941 at the age of 24
Lost on Clan Ogilvy, sunk north of Cape Verde Islands
Memorial: Tower Hill, panel 30
Stornoway Gazette, 6 June 1941
It was with great regret many friends learned that John Angus Murray, 8 Newlands, Shader, Point, had made the supreme sacrifice. John Angus, who was in the Merchant Service, was 24 years of age. He has been reported lost at sea. A very popular young man, he played football both for the Nicolson Institute and for Point XI. On completing his secondary course at the Nicolson, he entered Glasgow University, where he took an Arts degree.
Deep concern and anxiety was felt in Shader when it became known some time ago, through the press, that the ship on which John Angus Murray [3 Newlands Shader, Point] was sailing had been sunk through enemy action. As however no official intimation was received at the time, hope were entertained that he might possibly be among the survivors, but these hopes were shattered when his mother was later officially informed that her son had been lost at sea. This news cast great glooom over the whole community where John Angus was a much esteemed and popular youth. He was a fine type of Lewis man, dignified in bearing, upright in character and of strapping build, He was only 24. How little we thought when he left us a year last autumn to complete his studies at Glasgow University that he would never return. Anxious to do his bit for King and country, he entered upon a course of training in a gunnery school last year, and on the completion of his training joined this ill-fated ship as a gunner. John Angus was a youth of exceptionall fine qualities which endeared him to everyone in the community, old and young alike. His pleasant smile, his ready with and quiet nature, will be missed by all. A hard-working and diligent youth, he was always ready to help when help was needed. He was a fine athlete and a brilliant footballer, and many football fans throughout the island, particularly on the West Side, will have recollections of John Angie Dollag's superb goal keeping for Point in the good old days of peace. Indeed, it is difficult for us, who were always in his company, to contemplate the loss of a powerful fellow like him whose presence we always desired and looked for in our company. However greatly we miss home, much more shall those who were near and dear to him, who looked on him as the mainstay of the family and whose welfare was always his first consideration. To his widowed mother and sisters at home and away the profound sympathy of the entire community is extended, in the irreparable loss of a dutiful son and brother whose memory will always remain cherished in their hearts.
Stornoway Gazette, 11 July 1941
From a Lewisman on active service, this tribute to a popular Point lad who gave his life for freedom:
The whole of Point, and I believe most of Lewis Island, heard with great regret of the loss of such a popular lad as John Angus Murray, 3 Newlands, Shader, Point. Great Sympathy was felt in the district for his sorrowing mother and sisters. John Angie Dollag, as he was commonly called, was a real son of Lewis, Despite the fact that he had taken up a University career, he could not get rid of that yearning for the sea and the pure, patriotic spirit seeking no reward, which is characteristic of the best Lewisman. Little did we know and little did he, that he was destined for an ill-fated ship; but he had to goto sea, as he knew it was his duty and calling to do so. John Angie liked to be in the thick of the fray, and made a good fight of everything he tackled. This could not be more clearly shown than on the football field. When he was a member of the Point eleven, and later of the Nicolson Institute eleven, he always played a hard and plucky game from start to finish. There was no half-heartedness about him. I am certain he showed the same spirit in sterner tasks and that he bravely met his death. The stock from which he sprung, on both is father's and mother's side, were well-known for their hardiness and endurance. He was a lad who made many friends, and possessed all the qualities which make us so proud of our Lewis servicemen. The village of Shader must greatly miss such a well-liked lad as he.
Murdo Macdonald, 16 Shulishader
Able Seaman MURDO MACDONALD
Last address in Lewis: 16 Shulishader
Son of Torquil and Marion MacDonald.
Service: Merchant Navy
Date of death: 11 July 1943 at the age of 36
Lost in bombing of SS California off Portugal
Memorial: Tower Hill, panel 22
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
Stornoway Gazette, 10 September 1943
We regret to record that Murdo Macdonald, MN, 16 Shader Point, is presumed lost as a result of enemy action. Murdo was 36 years of age and was a sailor since he was quite a young chap. He was a very companionable man and made friends with all whom he met. His face always wore a smile. A gloom was cast over the village when the news spread that he was not among the survivors from his ship. His two sisters and two brothers and an aunt survive him. The youngest of the family, Cpl Alex Macdonald, RAMC, is on active service. To the sorrowing family, we extend deep sympathy in their bereavement.
Last address in Lewis: 16 Shulishader
Son of Torquil and Marion MacDonald.
Service: Merchant Navy
Date of death: 11 July 1943 at the age of 36
Lost in bombing of SS California off Portugal
Memorial: Tower Hill, panel 22
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
Stornoway Gazette, 10 September 1943
We regret to record that Murdo Macdonald, MN, 16 Shader Point, is presumed lost as a result of enemy action. Murdo was 36 years of age and was a sailor since he was quite a young chap. He was a very companionable man and made friends with all whom he met. His face always wore a smile. A gloom was cast over the village when the news spread that he was not among the survivors from his ship. His two sisters and two brothers and an aunt survive him. The youngest of the family, Cpl Alex Macdonald, RAMC, is on active service. To the sorrowing family, we extend deep sympathy in their bereavement.
Alexander Macmillan, 1 Shulishader
Seaman ALEXANDER MACMILLAN
Last address in Lewis: 1 Shulishader
Son of Mary Ann Macmillan, of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
Service: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Wasp
Service number: P/X 20584
Date of death: 1 April 1941 at the age of 20
Accidentally killed at Dover
Survived sinking of HMS Wren 27/7/40.
Interred: Dover (St James) Cemetery, row G, grave 26
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
Stornoway Gazette, 11 April 1941
It is with very deep regret we announce the death, by accident, of Alexander Macmillan, seaman, RNR, 1 Shader Point, at an English port on the 1st of April. Alexander, who was best known to his friends as Sandy Beag, was of a quiet, unassuming disposition. He was just a little over 20 years of age when he met his end. Before the outbreak of war he was serving on HM destroyer Wren, having joined her for the Royal Review at Spithead. On the outbreak of war his ship was commissioned for convoy duty, and he served with her until she was bombed, set on fire and sunk. The crew were machine-gunned in the water, but Sandy succeeded in swimming to a rescue ship nearby, and got aboard although hampered by fuel oil in which he had been immersed. After a few days at home on survivor's leave he returned to a naval depot and was drafted for duty as an anti-submarine torpedo boat. On board the Wren he was keenly interested in his Asdic duties and later he was selected for a course of instruction in the latest anti-submarine devices. He was expected home on leave after passing his final examination when the sad news of his death came through. Intelligent and efficient, never boisterous or boatsful, Sandy Beag had those rare qualities which go to the formation of an exemplary character. Clean-living and healthy minded, he feared God and served and died for his country. He was buried in an English cemetery with full naval honours. To his sorrowing mother and grandmother we extend our heartfelt sympathy, as to the other members of the family. Till the Day Breaks.
Stornoway Gazette, 25 April 1941
Last week we intimated the tragic death by accident of Seaman Alex Macmillan, Shader, Point. His mother has since received this tribute to her son from his Commanding Officer. "It grieves me that I should be writing of the passing of your son. In the short two months I commanded [---], I grew to know Alexander well. He was a true sailor steady, cheerful, quick and intelligent. As the weeks passed I placed more and more trust upon his shoulders with confidence. He never failed his country nor his ship. Most of all, I should like to say - Alexander was a good messmate. I say "most of all" because a good messmate is a good Christian. To be a good messmate you must be honest, courageous, clean-living and dutiful. You must help and love your neighbour. This is not always an easy task, for in small boats you live too close to your fellow men. However, Alexander Macmillan had all these virtues. You must not covet, blaspheme or shirk - your son did none of these. At Easter time, we are all of us, reminded that this existence on earth is but a stormy prelude to a gentle and peaceful life which Christ has prepared for us. In your hour of grief may I offer this consolation. Your son lived a good life here. He did not die. He merely passed on to a better world, without suffering. He has but gone before you and me, to God's realm, where we shall join him when God wills it. We are the losers for we have lost his companionship for a while. I do not grieve for him for he is safe. I grieve because you have lost a good son's company. If ever I can be of any help to you, will you please honour me by asking it. May God bless you and comfort you".
Last address in Lewis: 1 Shulishader
Son of Mary Ann Macmillan, of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
Service: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Wasp
Service number: P/X 20584
Date of death: 1 April 1941 at the age of 20
Accidentally killed at Dover
Survived sinking of HMS Wren 27/7/40.
Interred: Dover (St James) Cemetery, row G, grave 26
Local memorial: Point, Garrabost
Stornoway Gazette, 11 April 1941
It is with very deep regret we announce the death, by accident, of Alexander Macmillan, seaman, RNR, 1 Shader Point, at an English port on the 1st of April. Alexander, who was best known to his friends as Sandy Beag, was of a quiet, unassuming disposition. He was just a little over 20 years of age when he met his end. Before the outbreak of war he was serving on HM destroyer Wren, having joined her for the Royal Review at Spithead. On the outbreak of war his ship was commissioned for convoy duty, and he served with her until she was bombed, set on fire and sunk. The crew were machine-gunned in the water, but Sandy succeeded in swimming to a rescue ship nearby, and got aboard although hampered by fuel oil in which he had been immersed. After a few days at home on survivor's leave he returned to a naval depot and was drafted for duty as an anti-submarine torpedo boat. On board the Wren he was keenly interested in his Asdic duties and later he was selected for a course of instruction in the latest anti-submarine devices. He was expected home on leave after passing his final examination when the sad news of his death came through. Intelligent and efficient, never boisterous or boatsful, Sandy Beag had those rare qualities which go to the formation of an exemplary character. Clean-living and healthy minded, he feared God and served and died for his country. He was buried in an English cemetery with full naval honours. To his sorrowing mother and grandmother we extend our heartfelt sympathy, as to the other members of the family. Till the Day Breaks.
Stornoway Gazette, 25 April 1941
Last week we intimated the tragic death by accident of Seaman Alex Macmillan, Shader, Point. His mother has since received this tribute to her son from his Commanding Officer. "It grieves me that I should be writing of the passing of your son. In the short two months I commanded [---], I grew to know Alexander well. He was a true sailor steady, cheerful, quick and intelligent. As the weeks passed I placed more and more trust upon his shoulders with confidence. He never failed his country nor his ship. Most of all, I should like to say - Alexander was a good messmate. I say "most of all" because a good messmate is a good Christian. To be a good messmate you must be honest, courageous, clean-living and dutiful. You must help and love your neighbour. This is not always an easy task, for in small boats you live too close to your fellow men. However, Alexander Macmillan had all these virtues. You must not covet, blaspheme or shirk - your son did none of these. At Easter time, we are all of us, reminded that this existence on earth is but a stormy prelude to a gentle and peaceful life which Christ has prepared for us. In your hour of grief may I offer this consolation. Your son lived a good life here. He did not die. He merely passed on to a better world, without suffering. He has but gone before you and me, to God's realm, where we shall join him when God wills it. We are the losers for we have lost his companionship for a while. I do not grieve for him for he is safe. I grieve because you have lost a good son's company. If ever I can be of any help to you, will you please honour me by asking it. May God bless you and comfort you".
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