Martin, William Stanley 50786 ( - 1919)

Private, 1st Bn. Royal Scots

Buried at Alexandria (Hadra) War Memorial Cemetery

Commemorated at Hillhead High School

Private William Stanley Martin died of pneumonia following influenza in No. 17 General Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt, on 10th January, 1919, after having served throughout the whole war. Private Martin was the eldest of three soldier sons of Sir William and Lady Martin, 24 Atholl Gardens, Kelvinside, Glasgow, and was an old time Volunteer. Prior to the war he served for nine years in the 9th H.L.I., retiring in 1913. Although his health was none too robust, he re-enlisted in his old battalion early in September, 1914, and at once volunteered for foreign service.

He served in various places in this country up to December, 1917, when he was drafted to the 1st Garrison Battalion, Royal Scots, and went to Egypt in December, 1917.

Private Martin was an acute observer of men and things, and his judgements and forecasts of what was going to happen in political and social life were remarkably accurate. He chafed a good deal at being kept at home so long, when his two younger brothers were fighting in France. He was indeed a gallant fighter, and, had his physical ability been equal to his willingness, he would undoubtedly have distinguished himself.

Private Martin was a young man of marked individuality, who took his own view on all subjects, and was prepared to defend it against all comers. He was a good son and a staunch friend, and laid down his life for his country as surely as if he had fallen on the field of battle.

His two younger brothers, Captain C. Kingsley Martin, 9th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, and Lieut. A. Wellesley Martin, 18th H.L.I., served in France till the end of the war.

Private Martin was associated with his father in shipping business. His death is mourned by a wide circle of friends, and very specially by his old schoolfellows and his old School, who will ever cherish his memory.