A hunt has been launched for relatives of an Aberdeen WW1 hero – who won Britain’s highest military honour – on the centenary of his death.
Lieutenant Robert Grierson Combe was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously after taking part in an assault near the French town of Acheville on May 3, 1917.
And now, Aberdeen’s Lord Provost is appealing for any relatives to come forward ahead of the 100th anniversary of his death.
Born in Aberdeen on August 5, 1880 to James and Elizabeth, he attended Ferryhill School and Aberdeen Grammar School, prior to serving an apprenticeship in pharmacy.
He emigrated to Canada in his mid-twenties and operated his own shop in Melville, Saskatchewan until 1915 when he joined the Canadian Expeditionary Force.
Lt Combe found himself in heavy fighting around the area of Vimy in France with the 27th Battalion City of Winnipeg.
The Victoria Cross citation read: “He steadied his company under intense fire and led them through the enemy barrage, reaching the objective with only five men.
“With great coolness and courage, Lt Combe proceeded to bomb the enemy, and inflicted heavy casualties.
“He collected small groups of men and succeeded in capturing the Company objective, together with eighty prisoners.
“He repeatedly charged the enemy, driving them before him and, whilst personally leading his bombers, was killed by an enemy sniper.
“His conduct inspired all ranks, and it was entirely due to his magnificent courage that the position was carried, secured and held.”
The Victoria Cross was awarded posthumously and presented to his wife Jean, by the Prince of Wales.
The Lord Provost of Aberdeen, George Adam, said: “It would be fitting to share the centenary with his family.”
Relatives of Lt Combe should contact lordprovost@aberdeencity.gov.uk or telephone 01224 522470.