The Story of the Regiments - The Great War

THE GREAT WAR 1914-1918

On August the 13th, 1914, the 1st Battalion (the old 26th Cameronians) left Maryhill Barracks for France. The Battalion was recalled from manoeuvres in the Highlands and was in the pink of condition. It took its place at the Battle of Mons on the extreme left of the line, and was in the memorable retreat to Paris, being present at the Bloody Battle of Le Cateau and also at the memorable Artillery Fight at Nery.

The 2nd Battalion (the old 90th) was not long in arriving from Malta, and took part in the terrible Battle of Neuve Chapelle, where it was almost wiped out. Its gallant conduct on this occasion was specially noted by the Commander-in-Chief. It again suffered heavily shortly afterwards at the Battle of Fromelles.

The Territorial Battalions were not far behind their Regular comrades. The gallant fight of the 6th Battalion at Festubert is known to all.

It was not long before the regiment was reinforced by the addition of numerous Service Battalions, the 18th Battalion being in action at the signing of the Armistice in 1918.

Source: '300 Years of Service' published by the Regimental Trustees