Robb, Alexander Kirkland
Rank: Major
Regiment: 2nd Battalion Durham Light Infantry
Biography: Son of John Robb, Lieut-Colonel, I.M.S. Born Poona, 26 August 1872 ; educated at Aberdeen Grammar School; student in Arts, 1889-91 ; received his professional training at the Military College, Sandhurst.From there he passed out first in 1893, winning the sword of honour. Gazetted in the same year to the 2nd Battalion Durham Light Infantry, he saw active service on the N.W. Frontier with the King's Own Yorkshire L.I. He distinguished himself in various engagements, was mentioned in dispatches, and received the Tirah medal with two clasps. After a term of duty in Burma, he rejoined his regiment in Ireland ; and before August 1914 was acting as lecturer in military subjects at Durham University, and Adjutant to the O.T.C. there. Major Robb's battalion was sent to the Front three weeks after the outbreak of war ; and it was in their first engagement, at the Battle of the Aisne, on the 20 September 1914, that he fell, Though severely wounded in a bayonet charge, he continued to lead his men up to about thirty yards from the enemy trenches. The story of how he was brought in by a private of his battalion does honour to his rescuer ; and scarcely less to him, showing as it does the devotion which he inspired. Major Robb died in a hospital at Troyon the same night. He was an officer whom his regiment had cause to love and honour, a brave leader, and a courteous and considerate friend.
Honours: Tirah Medal with two Clasps
Date of Death: 20 September 1914
Burial Details: Buried at Vendresse British Cemetery, Plot 1, Row K, Grave 5.
Publication: Roll of Service, edited by Mabel Desborough Allardyce. Published 1921.
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