William Gordon Finlayson

Rifleman, London Regiment (London Scottish)

Age 15, Class IV C: 'Has shown much keenness and considerable ability.'

William Gordon Finlayson was a student at Alleyn’s until 1909. During this time he lived at 25 Deronda Road, Herne Hill with his grandfather, Henry, and his mother, Hannah, as well as his older brother, Victor. William worked as a clerk before deciding to enlist in the Territorial Force in November 1914 at the age of 20. After being declared as fit for military service, he joined the London Regiment (London Scottish) as part of 14^th Battalion and embarked for the Western Front. During his time overseas, William served with the London Scottish in France and Flanders. While serving in France, he received a gunshot wound to the left leg but was able to re-join his battalion on the Western Front after recovering. William continued to serve until the end of the conflict in 1918. For his services in the war he was awarded the British War and Victory Medal.