Heroism in the Highlands
By Janet Bryer
The stories recorded and unrecorded of those who served their country, those whose heroism is known and recognised with honours and that which is unknown is evidence of the 'spirit of the Highlands'.
In the archives there are many records of the heroic people who served their country. Further pictures, paper cuttings and interviews can be found on the Am Baile site for Highland History and Culture which tell stories of bravery and courage. This includes 'Seaforth Heroes' - J Cameron, D.L Rogers, J Turner, David Rogers who were awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal and a list of Ross-shire soldiers who 'earned distinction in the field' including Donald Mackenzie, Donald MacRae, Robert Mackenzie and Archibald Mackenzie who were all awarded the Military Medal.
Each Remembrance Sunday a flag is placed on the table in the Methodist Church. It is the flag that was placed on the coffin of Sub Lf James Gregor Riggs R.N.V.R - brought to church, in remembrance, by his niece. Gregor Rigg was buried in Singapore's Kranji War Memorial Cemetery on 26th August 1994 50 years after he died in 'Operation Rimau' to destroy Japanese shipping in Singapore harbour. 22 men, the majority of whom were Australian but with a few from the United Kingdom including Riggs. The men fought bravely to return to their rendezvous, once it became clear to the officers in command that they would not be able to complete their mission.
No one survived.
Riggs was killed with a comrade on Merapas Island. His remains were ultimately found by researcher Major Hall. Arachman Acha, a Merapas man told how at the age of 24 he witnessed the death of the two commandos as they staged a last stand so their comrades could escape from the attacking Japanese soldiers. With Cameron was mortally wounded, Riggs stood firm in the face of the enemy, taking many shots in the chest and body. Achap saw Riggs cross himself before he was finally shot in the forehead. The Japanese allowed Achap to bury Riggs and place a cross at the head of his grave.
The stories recorded and unrecorded of those who served their country, those whose heroism is known and recognised with honours and that which is unknown is evidence of the 'spirit of the Highlands'.
Image provided by Am Baile/ Gairloch Museum
A group photograph of troops from the No. 4 Company of the 4th Battalion Seaforth Highlanders, taken in 1919
Want to Learn More? To read more about the story of Sub Lieutenant Gregor Riggs please click here
We Want to Hear From You!
Share your stories about the history of the Highlands and Islands
Stories are at the heart of what we do as a project and we are always looking to learn more about what the Highlands and Islands means to people who live, work, and visit here.
The remarkable history of the Highlands and Islands comes alive in photographs and historical objects. Such objects shine a light on significant historical moments and echo its consequences, such as tragic loss of life during the First World War and its effects on survivors. We would love to know, are there any photographs, art pieces, or objects you feel encapsulate the turning points in the history of the Highlands and Islands? Tell us below, we can't wait to hear from you!
Click here to share your story through our online story portal