Smith, George Buchanan
Rank: 2nd Lieutenant
Regiment: 2nd Battalion Gordon Highlanders
Biography: Eldest son of Principal the Very Rev. Sir George Adam Smith. Born Aberdeen, 18 October 1890; educated Glasgow Academy; Glasgow, Aberdeen, Edinburgh Universities; M.A. (Glas.), 1912; LL.B. (Aberd.), 1914; Sergeant O.T.C. Commissioned S.R.O., 4 August 1914; attached 3rd Gordons, Stoneywood Wireless Station, till he conducted a draft for the 1st Battalion to Kemmel. On 14 December he led two platoons against the German lines, and having lain all day under fire, severely wounded, brought back the survivors, his C.O. testifying; " Your gallant conduct in the field has been reported to me, and I have had much pleasure in bringing it to the notice of higher authority". After three months in hospital and on garrison duty till 8 August 1915, he joined the 2nd Gordons, engaged in manoeuvres and trench-construction, and was promoted second officer of "A" Company on the fighting line. After a night of cutting wire before "The Silesian Sap " he led the guiding platoon of the regiment against the German position between Vermelles and Hulluch and there fell 25 September 1915. His capability as an officer is shown by the fact that "he had so instructed his N.C.O.'s that they were able to carry out orders and made good even after their officer fell ". One of many tributes paid to him by his fellow-officers states; " He knew no fear. His dauntless cheerfulness, bright wit and integrity of purpose were combined with most genuine unselfishness."
Date of Death: 25 September 1915
Burial Details: Name recorded on the Loos Memorial, Panel 115, Column 1.
Publication: Roll of Service, edited by Mabel Desborough Allardyce. Published 1921.
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