Fitting send-off for World War II veteran Donald Smith
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WORLD War II veteran Donald Smith was given a fitting send-off at his funeral on Thursday.
Tytler Street was lined with people, from Andrew Smith's Funeral Directors to the Victoria Hotel, who came out to pay their respects to Mr Smith, who died aged 100 on March 14.
In attendance was the Queen's Own Highlanders Association, standard-bearers from the Royal British Legion, members of Forres Pipe Band and a number of members of the public.
The hearse was proceeded by former Queen's Own Highlanders sergeant major Albert Duffus, Forres Pipe Band's acting pipe major Johnathan Scott and acting pipe sergeant Emma Lawrence.
Acting pipe major Mr Scott said: "It was as fitting a tribute as could be done in the current climate.
"We would have loved to have done more but we weren't allowed.
"Donald spent the last years of his life making sure the guys at St Valery weren't forgotten and they never should be."
Donald Smith was part of the 51st Highland Division ordered to fight in France to help complete the evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940. He spent five years as a prisoner of war after being captured by German troops during the battle at St Valery.
After meeting wife Helen post-war, Donald moved north for work, originally to Lossiemouth. Eight years ago, he moved to Forres, where he spent his last days.
Donald is survived by his wife of 64 years Helen, their three children, William, Margaret and Crawford, two grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Donald's family have asked for donations to Erskine in his memory. You can donate HERE.
