Skakle, Rev. Hugh Philip
Rank: Captain
Regiment: 4th Battalion Gordon Highlanders
Biography: Son of George Skakle, jeweller ; born Aberdeen, 25 July 1889 ; educated Gordon' s College and Aberdeen University; M.A., 1911 ; B.D., 1914. He was a distinguished student, gaining numerous class prizes ; an accomplished musician, possessed of a fine tenor voice ; and an enthusiastic athlete, as was proved by his prowess in swimming, gymnastics, and rowing. After licence in May 1914, he was Assistant at St. Michael's, Dumfries, whose minister testifies to his "strong character, high purpose, and decidedly spiritual cast". In January 1915 Skakle enlisted in the 4th Gordon Highlanders, and within a month received a commission as 2nd Lieutenant. He served for two years in France with the highest credit ; was wounded at High Wood, July 1916 ; after recovery was promoted Captain, July 1917 ; was honourably mentioned in dispatches by Sir Douglas Haig, and fell in battle at Containg, 21 November 1917. His Colonel wrote : "I cannot speak too highly of his work as an officer ; he did magnificently". A Chaplain describes him as "adored by his men, friend and counsellor of all".
Date of Death: 21 November 1917
Burial Details: Buried at Anneux British Cemetery, Plot 1, Row E, Grave 2.
Publication: Roll of Service, edited by Mabel Desborough Allardyce. Published 1921.
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