Arnot, Arthur Alison McDonald (1899 - 1918)

Lieutenant, 3rd Sqdn. Royal Air Force

Buried at Knightsbridge Cemetery, Mesnil-Martinsart

Commemorated at Hillhead High School

The death in action of Arthur A. M. Arnot was a heavy blow to the School. For over eleven years he had gone out and in amongst us, and was greatly beloved and trusted by everyone. He left us in session 1917, after obtaining his group leaving certificate, to take a commission in the Royal Air Force. All through his course Arthur was accepted by his fellows as a natural leader, and his leading was every healthy and helpful. He had a singularly clear and logical mind - a very rare quality in one of his years - exceptional power of concentration, and an indomitable will. In rugby, cricket and tennis he was always in the first flight, and his imperturbable sang froid had a fine steadying influence on a team. But, fond as he was of games, he had strong literary interests. He acted for a term as editor and business manager of the School Magazine, and was an active member of the Literary Society. At Easter, 1917, he joined the Royal Flying Corps as a cadet, his high spirit and his natural aptitude alike impelling him to that service. He obtained his wings in record time, and was flying in France before some of those who started with him had finished their training. There he speedily proved his mettle, and was promoted to Lieutenant. In February, 1918, he was home on short leave, looking the very picture of a self-possessed, resourceful aerial pilot. He was soon back at the Front, where he won fresh laurels. On the morning of 12th April he was informed that he had been awarded the Military Cross, and was recommended for promotion to flight commander. About six the same evening he set out on what proved his last flight. The story of it, told by a Canadian observer, is moving almost to tears, and should thrill and inspire Hillhead boys for long years to come. It is unspeakably pathetic to think of the gallant boy being cut down with his hard-won honour still fresh upon him. His squadron commander writes--"He could have landed on the German side in safety at any time, but preferred to try and get home to being taken prisoner. Ever since your son joined me in November last he had done excellent work in the squadron, and deserved, more than deserved, the recognition which in the last day was his."

Lieutenant Arnot was the younger son of Mr and Mrs Gordon A. Arnot , 6 Dryburgh Gardens, Kelvinside. To all his School contemporaries the memory of Arthur Arnot will be a lasting and precious possession.