More about Hugh Johnston

Private Hugh Johnston was one of the first 5th battalion men to be killed in action. The Dundee Advertiser reported
“The latest victim is Private Hugh Johnstone who resided with his sister at 56 Wililam Street. He was only 18 years of age and joined the colours three months before the outbreak of war. When he met his death, Private Johnston who was employed in Caldrum Works was engaged in trench digging. Two other Dundee lads Pte Simpson (curiously enough of the same address) and Pte Clark, Hill Street were along with him. They were working on each side of the deceased, and the first intimation they heard of the sad occurence was a low moan proceeding from the bottom of the trench. Little investigate was required to ascertain the cause, Pte Johnston had been struck in the head by a dum-dum bullet. He breathed his last a quarter of an hour later, and his body was buried the same night.’

Hugh Johnston 1879   Black Watch

In making the attack the 5th Black Watch, sustained few casualties, which is only typical of the good fortune which has attended them during the whole time they have been at the front.  Only four men had been reported killed, but unfortunately another name falls to be recorded to-day.  The latest victim is Private Hugh Johnston, who resided with his sister at 56 William Street.  He was only 18 years of age, and joined the colours three months before the outbreak of war.  When he met his death Private Johnston who was employed in Caldrum Works, was engaged trench digging.

Dundee People’s Journal 23rd January 1915