Private James Scambler

Private James Scambler, 2nd Battalion, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders. He was killed in action in France on 25th September 1915 on the first day of the Battle of Loos, aged 34. He He had been born in Innerwick and was the son of Richard and Janet Scambler of Branxton, Innerwick and the husband of Elizabeth Scambler of Bilsdean, Cockburnspath. He is buried in Cambrin Churchyard Extension along with 79 of his comrades who fell with him that day. He had been a Regular soldier and as a Reservist he was recalled to the colours on the outbreak of war. His occupation in 1914 was a railway surfaceman with the L.N.E.R. and as well as a widow he left two children. His Headstone is inscribed” Father In Thy Gracious Keeping We Leave Thy Servant Sleeping”. The first photo shows an actual attack with the troops disappearing into a ghostly cloud of gas and smoke. This was the first time the British Army had used gas in the War. The second shows the village of Loos after capture. The artist’s illustration depicts a Battalion attack led by their pipers.