MacLean, Alexander Murchison (1892 - 1918)

Captain, 10th Sqdn. Royal Air Force

Buried at Arras Flying Services Memorial

Commemorated at Hillhead High School

Captain A. M. Maclean was the second son of Professor Magnus Maclean, 51 Kersland Street. He was educated at Hillhead High School, where his frank and generous nature won for him a host of friends. He took a keen interest in all School sports, and played a prominent part in all games. He specially excelled in the art of swimming, and was not only School champion, but also champion of his year in
the Western Baths.

On leaving School he entered the service of Messrs. Gellatly, Hankey & Co., where at the early age of nineteen he was appointed cashier.

He still kept up his interest in the School, playing Rugby for the Former Pupils, and joining with some of his classmates the University O.T.C.

In June, 1912, he joined the firm of Messrs. Balfour, Williamson & Co., London, and his abilities were soon recognised by rapid promotion, and in April, 1913, he sailed for South America to take up an important post for the same firm in Coronel, Chile. There he remained till the outbreak of hostilities.

As the enemy's warships were known to be cruising in Chilean waters, it was impossible to obtain a passage to this country, so, along with two others who were determined to enlist, he left for Santiago to get a train across the Continent. Unfortunately, the service was for the time being cancelled owing to heavy snowfalls in the mountain regions. Determined not to be baffled and not to be delayed, they, with the help of guides, made the trying and perilous journey over the Andes on mule back. There they boarded a train for Buenos Ayres, and thence to London.

He was at once commissioned to the Scottish Horse, and proceeded soon after to Egypt and Gallipoli. For his services in the latter place he was recommended for the Military Cross by Brigadier-General Tullibardine, who sent him a personal note saying-" I would like you to know how much I personally appreciate your good work for the Brigade."

Later he was seconded for duty with the Black Watch at Salonica, and in 1916 he transferred to the R.A.F., with which he served in Egypt and France. On 12th April, 1918, during the critical time of the German push for the Channel ports, he was sent out on a low reconnaissance mission over the battle front, and never returned.

Later, when some of his effects were returned, the R.O. wrote-" Although he had only been with us for a very short time, he was already a popular and trusted member of the squadron."

No authentic news of his fate has ever been received. The hope was long entertained that he might be a wounded prisoner in Germany, but in September, 1919, the Air Ministry regretfully announced that they must presume his death.

The story of this gallant soldier who braved privations and hardships and perils to come to the defence of the Motherland, and who was privileged to render her service on so many widely separated battle fronts, will ever touch the imagination and heart of pupils of the School.