Osbourne, Robert (1888 - 1917)

Captain, 9th Bn. Higland Light Infantry

Buried at Suzanne Military Cemetery No. 3

Commemorated at Hillhead High School

Captain Robert Osbourne, who was twenty-nine years of age, was the elder son of Mr. Robert Osbourne, 1 Colebrooke Place. He was educated at the Hermitage School, Helensburgh, and Hillhead High School. At School his attractive disposition and frank nature secured for him many friends both among his schoolfellows and the teaching staff.

On leaving School he entered the office of the United Turkey Red Company, Limited, and subsequently for five years occupied a position in a business house in Rangoon. During his residence there he was a member of the Rangoon Mounted Rifles, holding the rank of sergeant.

Besides being an enthusiastic Volunteer he was a keen oarsman, and was stroke in the team which won the challenge cup at the Rangoon
Boating Regatta in 1912, Tor which he was presented by his regiment with a silver cup as a mark of their appreciation.

He returned to Glasgow in 1913, and, on the outbreak of war, rejoined as a private in the Glasgow Highlanders.

In April, 1915, he was granted a commission in his own regiment-a rare and coveted distinction. His promotion thereafter was rapid, and in February, 1917, he was gazetted captain. His native courtesy of disposition, his consideration for others, and his high-souled integrity endeared him to every member of the regiment. One of his fellow-officers testifies that "he was a father to his whole platoon, who used to be so proud of him not only as their leader but as their helper and friend."

On the 2nd March, 1917, in an attack near Clery, in the Somme valley, he was struck by a bullet and died within an hour. His commanding officer writes-" He had not been long with me, but long enough to show that he was made of the proper stuff. I miss him very much as one of my most promising young officers. He was liked by his men, and for a soldier there is no higher praise."