Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

A national lockdown and ice storm have not deterred the students and staff of Perth Academy in Perth, Scotland from commemorating the former 162 students and 2 staff who lost their lives during the Great War. February 12th marked the 100th anniversary of the unveiling of a commemorative plaque honouring these alumni, located in the school’s hall.

Above: The commemorative plaque in its current location
Below: Scenes from the unveiling, 12 February 1921

Among these names are five men who were educated at Perth Academy before emigrating to Australia and enlisting in the AIF. Their profiles can be viewed below:

Private Gavin MORTON,   3rd Infantry Battalion, Killed in Action, Gallipoli,  6 August 1915   https://vwma.org.au/explore/people/183672

Trooper  James GORRIE  4th Light Horse Died of Wounds, Gallipoli  10 August 1915   https://vwma.org.au/explore/people/178106

Lance Corporal Andrew GRAY, 11th Infantry Battalion,  Killed in Action, 22 July 1916   https://vwma.org.au/explore/people/251400

Private William McQUIBBAN, 1st Infantry Battalion, Killed in Action, Bullecourt, 7 April 1917   https://vwma.org.au/explore/people/123967

Private George Martin NICHOLSON, 32nd Infantry Battalion, Killed in Action,  Belgium,  12 October 1917   https://vwma.org.au/explore/people/50842

It is commendable that the staff and students of Perth Academy have not let these young men be forgotten, even while facing an incredibly trying situation themselves. The video of their commemorations can be viewed below:

The 2021 commemorations

We honour the service and sacrifice of these men. We will remember them always.

All photographs have been provided by the Perth Academy or taken from their YouTube video