On 4 Aug 1918 Private Robert Ross was killed in action, at the age of 20.
Born in Rogart, in 1898, Robert (or Robbie as he was known) came from a shepherding family*. His parents were Malcolm Alexander Ross (1864-1957) – a shepherd – and Maggie née Macdonald (1867-1925) of Ardichonacar, Robert had been employed as a shepherd when he enlisted at Nairn into 2nd Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders when he was given the regimental number: S/23304.
It is believed that Robert was killed when a shell struck a direct hit on their barracks.
Robert Ross was buried in the Row G 17 in the small Gonnehem British Cemetery, France. The words on his stone read “Greater love hath no man than this than to lay down his life for his friends.” He is also remembered on the Rogart war memorial.
*Robert’s brother, Donald Ross, was one of three shepherds who died in the terrible snowstorm on 26 March 1941.
Thanks to Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Scottish Military Research Group and a family member for additional information.