Merson, William Murison Smith
Rank: Captain
Regiment: 7th Battalion Gordon Highlanders
Biography: Son of Joseph Merson, solicitor ; born Aberdeen, 3 August 2892, but spent most of his life in Banchory ; educated Robert Gordon's College, Aberdeen ; matriculated, 1910 ; graduated M.A., 1913 ; LL.B., 1914. A pre-war member of "U" Company, 4th Gordon Highlanders, he went with the Battalion to Bedford in August 1914, but before the end of the month he had been commissioned in the 7th Battalion Gordon Highlanders. With them he crossed to France in May 1915, where he served continuously until November 1916, when, early on the morning of the 51st Division's memorable exploit at Beaumont-Hamel, he was killed in action, 13 November 1916. Several months before his death he had been promoted Captain, an advancement well merited by his record of keen and conscientious service. Merson was never widely known, but he took his share in all the activities of 'Varsity life, representing his year in the S.R.C. and giving valuable help in the Societies and at social functions. Those of his contemporaries who knew him cherish the memory of a loyal and kindly personality, in which strength of character was combined with gaiety of disposition.
Date of Death: 13 November 1916
Burial Details: Buried at Mailly-Wood Cemetery, Mailly-Maillet, Plot 1, Row B, Grave 24.
Publication: Roll of Service, edited by Mabel Desborough Allardyce. Published 1921.
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