Lives of the First World War

Victory Medal, similar to the one which would have been awarded to Thomas Louttit.

British War Medal, similar to the one which would have been awarded to Thomas Louttit.

Seaforth Highlanders War Memorial, Cooper Park, Elgin, Morayshire currently situated on the side of the Public Library which was once a battalion headquarters. It honours the dead of the Regiment.

Ramleh War Cemetery, Israel, where Thomas Louttit is buried.

Ramleh War Cemetery, Israel, where Thomas Louttit is buried.

Ramleh War Cemetery, Israel, where Thomas Louttit is buried.

Ramleh War Cemetery, Israel, where Thomas Louttit is buried.

Ramleh War Cemetery, Israel, where Thomas Louttit is buried.

Seaforth Highlanders Cap Badge, similar to the one which would have been worn by Thomas Louttit.

A family photo of some Orkney men of 5th Seaforth Highlanders apparently taken in Otley (near Leeds), West Yorkshire in 1917. Left to Right are: Thomas Kent (age around 19) from Greenwall, Westray; Samuel Harcus from Cotterochan Westray (age aroung 29); Thomas Louttit from Woodstock in Holm; (thought to be) Magnus Dearness from Quoyangry, South Ronaldsay. Thomas Kent, Thomas Louttit and Magnus Dearness all were killed or died of wounds received at Beit Lid. Samuel Harcus survived and his grandson Sam Harcus from Westray owns this family image.

Family photo

Serving in the 1st Battalion at time of death (CWGC Records)

When the Territorial Force was formed, the battalion had to change its name to the 5th (Sutherland and Caithness) Seaforth Highlanders, but as a concession to volunteer and county traditions, it was still allowed to wear the Sutherland Badge and Tartan, and is thus unique in being differently dressed from all other Seaforth Battalions.