2 May 1915

The battalion is engaged in the 2nd battle of Ypres, entrenched in positions to the northeast of the town. The diary entry is difficult to read.

Enemy sent over clouds of asphyxiating gas. They used this to attack, but were repulsed.

Killed: 1

Further account of Gas attack on 2nd May 1915
Our respirators were found to be no good being made out of nothing but woolen waist belts. We had several men killed from gas.

Battn had only very inefficient respirators. From 5.30pm, gas sent over. The Battn stood firm and held their trenches though nearly every man was badly affected. The Basttn on our left had to leave their trenches, which was reoccupied by the Argylls, who had to charge through the gas.
The Germans formed up ready for an attack, but we inflicted losses on them and it came to nothing.

Lewis casualty
Private NORMAN MACLEOD

Last address in Lewis: 3 Tolsta Chaolais,
Son of Malcolm and Mary Macleod
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/7862
Date of death: 2 May 1915 at the age of 27
Died of gas poisoning at St Julien
Memorial: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Panel 38
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais


John Murray did not die in the 2nd battle of Ypres. His interment at Boulogne suggested he was wounded at the front, and transferred to a hospital in Boulogne for treatment.
Lance Corporal JOHN MURRAY
Last address in Lewis: 12 South Dell,
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/6690
Date of death: 2 May 1915 at the age of 22
Died of wounds in France
Interred: Boulogne Eastern Cemetery, grave VIII. B. 13
Local memorial: North Lewis, Cross