MacLean, Donald (1899 - 1918)

Second Lieutenant, 6th Bn. Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)

Buried at Domino British Cemetery, Epehy

Commemorated at Hillhead High School

The report of the death in action of Second Lieutenant Donald MacLean aroused profound sorrow in the School. It seemed but the other day that he was in our midst" going round the classes," as he himself said in his last letter to the headmaster, "collecting the money for soldiers' comforts, and then proceeding to the very difficult task of adding up the totals!" His was a singularly attractive and lovable nature. His good temper and sang froid were unshakable, and his sense of humour exceptionally keen, the twinkle in his eye proclaiming a coming sally long before it crystallised in speech. In word and deed he was "steel true and blade straight," and had the staunch affection and unwavering confidence of all his comrades. Though endowed with no natural quickness, he never rested till he had mastered his difficulties, and in the end he graduated from the School with high distinction.

He early joined the O.T.C. (Junior Section), and steadily rose through the various grades to that of Company Sergeant-Major. During session 1916-17 he acted as business manager of the School Magazine, and never was the work better done. He was a prominent figure on the Rugby field, where his dash, resolution, and speed made him an ideal three-quarter.

In September last he joined the O.C.B. at Gailes, and after a course of training there he was posted to the 1st Scottish Rifles. On his last visit to the School before crossing to France everyone was struck with his tall, lithe figure and gallant bearing. He came safely through much heavy fighting on the Western Front, but on the 21st September, during an attack on the German lines near Cambrai, he fell at the head of his men.

His commanding officer, the Hon. Harold Ritchie, who was himself mortally wounded in the same battle, wrote from hospital regarding him, "He endeared himself to all, and the care which he devoted to his men and the efficiency with which he carried out his work will cause him to be greatly missed and mourned both by officers and men."

Colonel Wingate, a former C.O., writing to the headmaster, says, "Among a good lot I know none better than young MacLean, and I took a very strong liking to him. At all times he was smart and efficient, and I was particularly struck with two things - the good care he took of his men and the courage and skill he showed on patrol at night."

Brigadier-General Mayne and Major Kirkwood also sent letters of sympathy and regret at the loss of a most promising officer. He was the elder son of Mr. Donald MacLean, Headmaster, Govan High School, and of Mrs. MacLean, 83 Marlborough Avenue, Glasgow, W.