In a solemn ceremony held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s Messines Ridge Cemetery in Belgium today, the Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the ‘MOD War Detectives,’ organised a burial service for three soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War I.
Recovered by archaeologists as part of a potato farm expansion project in Neuve Eglise, Belgium, the soldiers were identified as members of the 9th (Glasgow Highland) Battalion, Highland Light Infantry. Various artefacts found near their remains, combined with information from war diaries and records, indicated that they likely died between April 13-15, 1918, during the Battle of the Lys.
Through meticulous efforts, including DNA testing and tracing the descendants of missing soldiers, Lance Sergeant Robert Brand was positively identified as one of the fallen soldiers. Born on September 13, 1893, in Stirling, Scotland, Brand had served his country since November 1914. He had been hospitalised previously due to a gunshot wound to the neck, an important detail that helped confirm his identity.
Caroline Smith, Brand’s great niece, expressed her family’s gratitude for the opportunity to attend the burial of her uncle and his fellow soldiers. She acknowledged the support of the JCCC in guiding them through the DNA process and organising the service. The Brand family expressed their pride and gratitude for Lance Serjeant Robert Brand’s service and sacrifice.
The burial service was conducted by Rev’d David Jeal, chaplain, who described it as a great honour to finally lay these soldiers to rest and ensure they receive the full military burial they deserved. Members of the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland, provided support during the service, including the bearer party, piper, and bugler.
Geert Bekaert, Commonwealth War Graves Commission Area Director, emphasized the Commission’s commitment to caring for the graves of Lance Serjeant Robert Brand and his fellow soldiers, ensuring their memory is preserved in perpetuity. The burial serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of all those who served during the First World War.
While Lance Sergeant Brand has been positively identified, one soldier remains unidentified. The JCCC appeals to any family members who believe they may be related to Private Robert Campbell, a member of the 9th Glasgow Highland Light Infantry, to come forward and provide information.
