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Dornoch veteran and Légion d'honneur recipient dies


By Ali Morrison

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World War II veteran Andrew Macleod of Dornoch has died at the age of 98.

A Seaforth Highlander, Mr Macleod fought against Rommel in North Africa and was part of the Allied invasion of Sicily in 1943, going on to fight in Italy.

Mr Macleod lived latterly at Oversteps Care Home, Dornoch.
Mr Macleod lived latterly at Oversteps Care Home, Dornoch.

One of his commanding officers was the late Sir Allan Gilmour, father of Lt Col Colin Gilmour of Rosehall.

After the war Mr Macleod worked as a painter and decorator and was also heavily involved in the community, serving as president of Dornoch Highland Games for many years.

A keen golfer, he was still caddying at the age of 90 and was in high demand because of his knowledge of the game.

Latterly Mr Macleod, whose wife Cathie pre-deceased him, was a resident at Oversteps Care Home at Earl’s Cross Road, Dornoch.

He and fellow Dornoch World War II veteran Andrew Mackenzie hit the headlines in 2018 when they received the Légion d’honneur – France’s highest honour.

All British veterans who fought for the liberation of France during WWII are entitled to the honour but rigorous checks are made to ensure they are deserving of it.

Mr Macleod, along with Mr Mackenzie, received his Légion d’honneur through the post as he was unable travel to attend one of the award ceremonies where the honour is presented by the French ambassador.

Oversteps held a party for the two men to celebrate the bestowal of the award.

Mr Macleod is survived by his children Catrina and Gavin, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

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