Bruce, Andrew Moffat (1897 - 1918)

Second Lieutenant, 9th Bn. Higland Light Infantry

Buried at Targelle Ravine British Cemetery, Villers-Guislain

Commemorated at Hillhead High School

Second Lieutenant Andrew Moffat Bruce was the youngest son of Dr. R. Wilson Bruce, 5 Rosebery Terrace, Glasgow. He was one of five brothers, all of whom gave prompt and willing answer to the call for men. Two of them have joined the glorious host of the unreturning brave, Lieutenant Charles James in Palestine and Andrew in France. Clean-minded and generous-hearted, as boy and man he made friends wherever he went. Like his brothers, he was keenly interested in swimming, and was an active member of the Arlington Baths. On leaving School he entered the office of Messrs. Adam Brown & Co., iron and steel merchants, Oswald Street, Glasgow. Though there but a short time, his keenness, uprightness, and good sense greatly commended him to his employers. Though only seventeen years of age, he at once enlisted in the Glasgow Highlanders. Too young to go to France, he was for over eighteen months in various camps in this country.

In 1916 he went on active service, but after a period in the trenches he was invalided home with trench feet. When he recovered he was sent for training to a Cadet Battalion, and at the close obtained the coveted distinction of being offered a commission in his old Battalion.

He returned to France in April, 1918, and passed safely through much heavy fighting. He was joyfully looking forward to leave when, in the great advance of 29th September, 1918, he was killed in action. His Colonel writes--"He was a splendid officer. Full of enthusiasm and keen in his duties; he was a perfect inspiration to his platoon, and he lost his life while gallantly leading them in the attack last Sunday."

Further particulars are given by the Padre, who says--"The Battalion was in action early on Sunday morning, and Andy didn't come in. We found him shot through the head on a green slope at the head of his men, who had been caught by machine gun fire. The whole battalion sends deepest sympathy. Your laddie had done extremely well, was trusted by the men and the Colonel, andwas most popular with his fellow-officers. Andy was always a most charming boy to me, and I can understand a little how you will miss him." He is laid to rest near Villers Guislain - together with two brother-officers and eighty of their men.

The deepest sympathy of the School is extended to his father, brothers, and sisters, who are thus for the second time bereaved.