War Memorial #877 ~ Piper Daniel Laidlaw V.C. Traditional Geocache

A commemorative VC stone at Swinton War Memorial, Berwickshire.

This is the first in a small series based around local war hero Daniel Laidlaw VC - The Piper of Loos. 

The Piper of Loos #2 - GC8D9VG

The Piper of Loos #3 - GC8DBWW

The Piper of Loos #4 - GC8DEDK

We begin our journey in Swinton. Daniel was born on 26th July 1875 down the road in Little Swinton, son of Robert and Margaret. His older brother, William Robert, who was himself a Pipe Major, was influencial in teaching Daniel to play the pipes. 

Having moved further south in Northumberland and furthering his education Daniel enlisted in the 2nd Battalion Durham Light Infantry and spent two years posted to India. On his return to England Daniels brother William advises him to switch reigments to the King's Own Scottish Borderers. Daniel served until he was placed in the reserve in 1912. He married Georgina and had six children. When war broke out he told his wife he was thinking of re-enlisting. His wife is said to have replied "Yes, go, and good luck to you. We'll get along alright."

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In September 2015 a Commemorative VC Stone was laid at Swinton War Memorial to mark the 100th anniversary of the Victoria Cross award and Daniel's bravery at the Battle of Loos. The ceremony was attended by members of the Laidlaw family, Royal Scots Borderers, Piper Kev Turner, KOSB veterans and locals from the village.

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