JAMES MACNAB

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

JAMES MACNAB James Macnab was born in Winnipeg on December 23, 1891, and died August 19, 1915, while serving active fighting in the First World War at Gallipoli. He enlisted on September 28, 1914, with the First World War CEF and became part of the Winnipeg Fort Garry Horse 6th Battalion 2nd Brigade. On August 6, 1915, James survived, with minor wounds, the infamous night landing of Suvla Bay, Gallipoli, by Kitchner's British troops. Up until his death his surviving letters recall much difficult and horrific fighting at his last battles of Suvla, yet it was especially remembered by those who fought along side him that he never lost his cheery charm and optimistic spirit. He is buried at the unmarked soldiers cemetery at the First World War Commonwealth Helles Memorial monument in Gallipoli,Turkey. The following from the original Free Press obituary published August 26, 1915 "Young Winnipeg Officer Killed" "Lieut. James Macnab looses life at Dardenelles - former member of the Houghton gun crew. Word was received in the city Wednesday by J. C. Macnab of Macnab and Roberts, Lombard Street, that his son James had been killed while fighting in the Dardenelles. Notification of the death of this well known young Winnipeg man came from the war office. James was born in Winnipeg 24 years ago and actively engaged in the social life of the city. He was one of the most enthusiastic members of the Winnipeg Rowing club and was a member of the junior four which, some year ago, won many honors at regattas in the east. Shortly after the outbreak of the war he enlisted in the machine gun crew organized by Gene Houghton of the Grain Exchange, but on arrival to England he transferred to the 8 Northumberland Fusiliers in which he was given a commission as second Lieutenant. Later he went with his regiment to the Dardenelles and saw considerable fighting." James, in beloved memory, you are remembered in this memorial by Sergio Lavilla. After 100 years you are not forgotten and will live forever and remembered in the hearts and memories of all those who knew you and of all who remember you today and all who will know of you in the future. Your genuine joy for life and gracious spirit continues to inspire us today. Do not stand at my grave and weep; I am not there; I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glint on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle autumn rain. When you wake in the morning hush; I am the swift, uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circling flight. I am the soft starlight at night. Do not stand by my grave and weep. I am not there; I do not sleep. By Mary Frye.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 19, 2015