More about James McCulloch

James was the brother of Pte Thomas McCulloch, 3807, 4/5th Battalion, Black Watch, who was killed in action, 17.10.1916.

James McCulloch   241231   Black Watch

A DUNDEE FAMILY’S DOUBLE LOSS.

TWO SONS FALL IN ACTION.

Mr and Mrs Thomas M’Culloch, 14 Forfar Road, Dundee, have sustained a grievous loss.  Last week they received intimation that their son, Private Thomas M’Culloch, Black Watch, had been killed in action.  The blow was all the more severe, as Mr and Mrs M’Culloch were in deep anxiety regarding the fate of their eldest son, Private James M’Culloch, also with the Black Watch, from whom they had not heard for several weeks.  Yesterday they received a letter from an officer which unfortunately points to James having fallen.  The officer writes :–“Your eldest son James is missing.  James was with a party who got separated from the main body, and he and another were sent along the captured German trench to try and get connection with the rest.  Your boy was slightly wounded at the time, but he obeyed willingly. Alas! They never came back, and nothing has been seen or heard of them since.  It is possible they were taken prisoners, but I fear it is much more probable a shell on them and killed them.  Your sons were not long with us, but they had won their way to all our hearts, and we feel their loss very keenly.  I am proud to say James appears to have done great work, so much so that his is one of three names in B Company that are being sent up for special mention.”

The brothers were inseparable chums.  They enlisted together in the Fife and Forfar Yeomanry in November last.  About three months ago they were transferred to the Black Watch.  Private James M’Culloch was 21 years of age, and prior to enlistment was employed as a grocer.

Dundee Courier 23rd October 1916

DUNDEE FAMILY HEAVILY HIT.

Mr Thomas McCulloch, 14 Forfar Road, Dundee has received official intimation that his son Private James McCulloch, Black Watch, who was posted missing on 14th October, 1916, was killed on that date.

Private McCulloch enlisted in October, 1915, and had been two months at the front when he fell.  Previous to joining the army deceased was employed as manager with Mr P. H. McIntosh, wine merchant, Victoria Street, Dundee.  His younger brother, Thomas died of wounds in November of last year.

Dundee Courier 31st August 1917