County: Renfrewshire
Issued on: Return
Date of presentation: 16/08/1901
Number issued: 2
Gold badges, suitably inscribed, to:
7270 Private James McGILL
Presentation made by Bro. H.D. Soutter, in the hall of Court Royal Archer, No. 1,544, Ancient Order of Foresters, Roxburgh Street.
GREENOCK FORESTERS’ SOCIAL GATHERING.
HONOURING THE VOLUNTEERS.
Under the auspices of Court Royal Archer, No. 1,544, of the Ancient Order of Foresters, a successful social gathering took place in the hall (Roxburgh Street) last night in honour of the return of two of the brethren from active service in South Africa. There was a large turnout of members and friends, the building being filled. Among the audience were several Volunteers, wearing their uniforms. Bro. H.D. Soutter, P.D.C.R. (District Secretary), presided, and was accompanied on the platform by the guests of the evening – Bros. Farrier Wm. YOUNG and Private James McGILL (both of whom wore their khaki uniforms) …….
At an interval during the evening the Chairman made suitable reference to the purpose of the gathering. It had been arranged, he said, by members of the Court to show their appreciation of the patriotism displayed by two of their brethren by volunteering and serving their country in South Africa. When the war broke out, the Chairman stated, the Executive circularised the various Courts that they were to make provision for the books of the members who might have to go to the war. Court Royal Archer, however, required no such instruction, as they had unanimously agreed before the receipt of the communication to keep their two guests in benefit so far as the Society was concerned. (Applause). They were all proud to see Brothers McGILL and YOUNG back again, in health and strength, and they were proud of what they had done. On behalf of the Court he asked them to accept of a handsome gold badge (suitably inscribed). The presentation was made amid applause, which was renewed as the recipients briefly thanked for their cordial welcome and gifts. The Chairman said they were all very pleased to have with them that evening the popular commanding officer of the Volunteers, Col. Lamont, who took a keen personal and practical interest in each of the members. Colonel Lamont, who was also cordially received, said he was present to do honour to their two young comrades, for he thought they deserved all credit for their patriotism and pluck. …….
