William David Hannan worked for the Northern Assurance Company Ltd. in the Glasgow branch. He joined the company in 1898 and was an inspector by 1914. He volunteered on the outbreak of war and was sent to France in November 1914 with the 5th Scottish Rifles (Cameronians). He obtained a commission in the 8th Scottish Rifles and after training went to Gallipoli. He served with his regiment in Palestine until Spring 1918 and was wounded during the campaign. Mentioned in dispatched three times, he also received the Military Cross, gazetted on the 26 March 1918: “For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He organised and led carrying parties under shell and rifle fire, and by his coolness and determination assisted greatly in the consolidation of the captured position.” In the Spring of 1918 he was transferred to France and it was here that he was killed in action. He was 37.

Anna Stone