John Towers Neilson

"John Towers Neilson was the only son of the late William Neilson and Mrs. Neilson, Holyrood Quadrant, Glasgow. He received all his education in Hillhead High School, where he distinguished himself by taking several prizes and gained one of the School scholarships. At the close of his school career he entered the office of Messrs Aitken, Mackenzie & Clapperton, stockbrokers, and continued in their service till he joined the University OTC in the summer of 1915.

In November of the same year he received his commission in the 8th Scottish Rifles. After a period of training at Ripon he left for Egypt in March 1916. He came safely through the battles of Romani and Gaza, but in subsequent heavy fighting in Palestine he fell mortally wounded while leading his platoon in a successful attack on the Gaza defences, 2nd November 1917. Lieutenant Neilson was well known in musical circles as an amateur performer of much promise. He was an enthusiastic member of the Lyric Club and was held in great esteem by his fellow members. He was a singularly loving and devoted son and brother."