Private Alexander Barrie

Private Alexander Brodie Barrie, 1st/8th (Pioneer) Battalion, Royal Scots. He died in the Military Hospital, Guildford, Surrey ,aged 20, from wounds on the 2nd May 1918. He had been born in Galashiels and was the son of James and Catherine Barrie of 88 High Street, Dalkeith. He is buried in Dalkeith New Cemetery. The Battalion had been involved in heavy fighting during the German Spring Offensives and especially on the 24th March. On that date they were in the front line near Bancourt and fought a fighting retreat which resulted in many casualties. During the period 24th-26th March 2 Officers and 33 Other Ranks were killed and 4 officers and 133 Other Ranks were wounded. In addition 45 Other Ranks were posted missing. It is likely Private Barrie was one of the wounded and was evacuated back to England .