David's death

David's death

known 23rd June 1916

This account has been taken verbatim from p.55 of the "Roll of honour, Arbroath and district. 1914-1919" which can be accessed at https://digital.nls.uk SERGEANT DAVID SMITH, 5th Black Watch, son of Mrs Smith, Grant Place, Carnoustie, was twenty-four years of age. He served his apprenticeship as an iron turner at Taymouth Engineering Works. He was a member of the Territorial Force, and was well-known and popular in Carnoustie. In August 1914 he was mobilised as a private in the 5th Black Watch, and later, when in France, he did great service by initiating the throwing of grenades with the rifle. It was while explaining the method to his officer that a grenade accidentally burst and killed him on the 23rd of June 1916. His major wrote:- "He died a grand soldier, loved and respected by all ranks in his special branch. Just a few days before he was one of a selected few who carried out a great enterprise. To be selected in our battalion is a great honour, and I know that his work on that occasion added greatly to the success of the enterprise, which brought to the battalion great praise and congratulations from corps commanders downwards."

Created by: , Ursula6166

  • Profile picture for David Mcdonald Smith

    Born 1892

    Died 1916

    British Army 820 Private Royal Highlanders

    British Army 1st/5th Battalion

    British Army 820 Serjeant Royal Highlanders 5th Battalion