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We need you to tell us more about the life and times of Alexander Will Hampton Smith

Alexander Will Hampton Smith

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Lt Alexander Smith (images courtesy of Jean Cooke)

Military Information

  • Date of enlistment: 05.08.1914
  • Place of enlistment:
  • Service no: N/A
  • Rank: Second Lieutenant
  • Service Occupation:
  • Awards: Military Cross
  • Regiment/Service: Gordon Highlanders
  • Unit/Ship: 1st/5th Battalion
  • Place of Death: St Quentin, France
  • Age at Death:
  • Date of Death: 21.03.1918
  • Burial Country: France
  • Cemetery: Pozieres Memorial
  • Grave/Mem Ref no: Panel 73

Personal Information

  • Date of Birth:
  • Place of Birth: Forglen, Aberdeenshire
  • Address: Ballihill House, Panmure, Carnoustie
  • Occupation: Law Clerk, Solicitor's Office, Aberdeen
  • Mother:
  • Father:

    Alexander Will Smith, Ballihill House, Panmure, Carnoustie

  • Siblings:
  • Spouse:
  • Children:

More about Alexander Will Hampton Smith

For reasons unknown this man is not listed on the original Dundee Roll of Honour, but is remembered on the Monikie War Memorial. Alexander was killed in action.

Alexander enlisted as a private in the Gordon Highlanders, 05.08.1914. He served in France from 19.02.1915 till 06.02.1917 and during this initial overseas service he was promoted Lance Corporal 24.10.1916. He was then attended Officer Cadet School from 07.02.1917 till 25.06.1917 when he was appointed to 2nd Lieutenant in the Gordon Highlanders until he was killed in action at St. Quentin 21.03.1918.

His two sisters were also doing their bit in the war, both being Nurses in military hospitals, one in Egypt and the other in Ireland.

Military Cross Citation “London Gazette 15.02.1918”

“For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He led his men forward in the attack under the most difficult conditions and captured the objective. When clearing the trench he met with strong opposition, and crossing the open under intense fire he led a tank forward to the assistance of his platoon. By his prompt and courageous action the trench was cleared and the advance was continued.”

Place and date of deed, East of Havrincourt, 20 Nov, 1917.

Information kindly supplied by Jean Cooke

Can you tell us more about Alexander Will Hampton Smith'? Some additional facts, a small story handed down through the family or perhaps a picture or an heirloom you can share online. Contact our curator...

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