Baird, James Henry Hugh 2959 ( - 1916)

Sergeant, 17th Bn. Highland Light Infantry

Buried at Thiepval Memorial

Commemorated at Hillhead High School

James H. H. Baird, the third son of Mr and Mrs Baird, 36 Sutherland Terrace, Hillhead, was regarded by his teachers as a singularly reliable and upright pupil. He was also a diligent and conscientious student, and was ever a leader among his schoolfellows. He was keenly interested in all forms of sport, and there were few in which he did not excel. On leaving School he joined the firm of Alexander and Mair, shipowners, Glasgow. His advance there was rapid, and by the time he was nineteen years of age he was a member of the "Room". On the outbreak of war he joined the Former Pupils' Training Corps, and proved to be one of its most active and efficient members.

In May, 1915, he enlisted in the 17th H.L.I., the Chamber of Commerce battalion. Tall, broad-shouldered, athletic, he looked the soldier every inch, and no one who knew him was surprised at his rapid promotion. In a few months he passed through the various grades of non-commissioned rank, and was recommended by his colonel for a commission. His papers were signed and ready to be sent in when, on the 18th November 1916, he was seen to fall at the head of his men during an attack on the German lines. He was at first reported wounded and missing, but later evidence went to show he had been killed. Thus pass in a halo of glory our bravest and best, but their example remains to inspire and cheer.

James Baird was a devoted son and a loving brother, and the tenderest sympathy of the School goes out to his widowed mother and brothers and sisters.