Six Scottish soldiers buried in France 108 years after their deaths
Two Scottish soldiers from World War I, identified through DNA evidence, were buried in France alongside four unknown comrades after 108 years.
The UK Ministry of Defence’s War Detectives used DNA evidence to identify two of the six Scottish soldiers recovered from a battlefield in France. Four remain unidentified, though one was confirmed to have served with the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, while the others likely served with the Gordon Highlanders. Relatives attended a burial ceremony in France, where the two identified soldiers, Private George Fleming Brock and Private Percy Todd, were laid to rest with full military honours. The six men were discovered during an archaeological survey in Tilloy-les-Mofflaines in 2023, alongside artefacts including regimental insignia from both regiments.
Private Brock, aged 19, was an architectural apprentice from Dunipace who enlisted in 1916. He was seriously wounded shortly after joining his battalion but returned to service in January 1918. He was killed on 28 March 1918 during the German Spring Offensive while holding positions near Tilloy-les-Mofflaines. Private Todd, a draper’s manager from Nottinghamshire, enlisted in 1915 and was also seriously wounded early in his service. He rejoined his battalion in February 1918 but was killed on 5 April 1918 during the same offensive.
The soldiers were identified through extensive historical research and DNA testing conducted by the MOD’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre, also known as the MOD War Detectives. The service was organised by the JCCC, which works to identify recovered remains of British military casualties from conflicts. The burial marked the first time these men were laid to rest since they fell in battle 108 years ago, providing closure for their families.
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) played a key role in recovering the soldiers and supporting the identification process. While four of the soldiers remain unidentified, the CWGC has committed to caring for their graves in perpetuity. The organisation highlighted that half a million British servicemen from World War I are still missing, making each identification a significant achievement in honouring their sacrifice.