Participant Info
- Photograph
- Last Name
- Speedie
- First Names
- James H.
- Conflict
- WW1
- Memorial
- St Michael's
- Date of Death
- 25th September 1915
- Unit
- Cameron Highlanders
- Rank
- Private
- Link
- Link to CWGC Record
- Biographical information
James Hodge Speedie was the son of John and Janet Speedie, 32 Polwarth Gardens.
He was the first Heart of Midlothian football player to make the supreme sacrifice for his country. An amateur, he joined Hearts in 1913 from Tranent Juniors. He clung to his amateur status and was a great player in his day. He was modest, unassuming, and kindly. When the call of Country came he was ready, willing and anxious to serve the cause of right. Early in the war he served in France and came through several severe battles bu ultimately fell fighting at Loos. [NOTE: from The Hearts and the Great War by John McCartney: the original Heart of Midlothian F.C. Roll of Honour from 1918.]
He is commemorated on the family grave in North Merchiston Cemetery and a photo of this is shown below. The text on the stone is: “In Loving Memory of Janet Speedie … … John Speedie … … and of their sons, both killed in action JOHN GIBSON SPEEDIE The Royal Scots at Arras 14.6.1917 and JAMES HODGE SPEEDIE The (Q.O.) Cameron Highlanders at Loos 25.9.1915.”
Their names are on the WW1 memorial of St Michael’s Church.
