Company Sergeant Major John Douglas,D.C.M.

Company Sergeant Major John Douglas D.C.M. 2nd Battalion, Kings Own Scottish Borderers. He died on Service at the 2nd Scottish General Hospital, Craigleith from a chest infection on 6th December 1918, aged 23, and is buried in Greenlaw Kirkyard. He had been born in Southdean, Roxburghshire and was the son of Anthony and Robina Douglas of Halliburton and Rumbeltonlaw, Greenlaw. Before enlisting he had been employed as a ploughman at Halliburton. He was awarded his Distinguished Conduct Medal for his actions on 17th April 1918 and the Citation reads as follows.” For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on all occasions. He led his platoon in action with great courage and ability, organised bombing parties to clear hostile dug-outs, and by his energy and good leadership greatly contributed to the success of the operations.”   (The D.C.M. is considered just one step below the Victoria Cross). His brother Robert also died during the War, see below.