Great War Dundee
This is Dundee's story of those that served in the First World War, and of the people left at home
We need you to tell us more about the life and times of William Mercer Alexander
William Mercer Alexander
Military Information
- Date of enlistment: September 1914
- Place of enlistment:
- Service no: N/A
- Rank: Second Lieutenant
- Service Occupation:
- Awards:
- Regiment/Service: Highland Light Infantry
- Unit/Ship: 17th Battalion
- Place of Death: France
- Age at Death: 22
- Date of Death: 01.07.1916
- Burial Country: France
- Cemetery: Thiepval Memorial
- Grave/Mem Ref no: Pier & Face 15C
Personal Information
- Date of Birth:
- Place of Birth:
- Address:
- Occupation:
- Mother:
- Father:
John H. Alexander, “Edwinton”, West Ferry, Dundee
- Siblings:
Ronald R.
- Spouse:
- Children:
More about William Mercer Alexander
William has no known grave but is remembered on the Thiepval Memorial. His brother Ronald served as a Lieutenant with the Royal Field Artillery during the Great War.
William Mercer Alexander Second Lieutenant Highland Light Infantry
Lads Who Fell in Great Advance.
Second Lieutenant William Mercer Alexander, so of Mr J. H. Alexander, Edwinton, West Ferry, and agent of the National Bank, Dundee, has made the supreme sacrifice. A few days ago Mr Alexander received a telegram to the effect that his son was reported missing. On Monday another message came to hand bearing the sad news that the worst fears had now been confirmed, and the deceased had fallen in battle. The deceased officer was well known in Dundee and Broughty Ferry, and much sympathy will be extended to his parents in their sad bereavement.
Lieutenant Alexander was only 22 years of age. He was educated at Glasgow Academy, Seafield House, Broughty Ferry, Dundee High School, and Clifton Bank, St Andrews.
He joined the Highland Light Infantry in September 1914, and received his commission in the following January. His younger brother, Lieutenant Ronald R. Alexander is in France with the Royal Field Artillery.
Dundee People’s Journal 15th July 1916
Information supplied by Gary Thomson, additional information kindly supplied by Michael Caldwell
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