Smith, Douglas Robert
Rank: Captain
Regiment: 47th (London) Division, Royal Engineers
Biography: Son of James Smith, agent, Northern Agricultural Company ; born Turriff, 12 March 1891 ; educated Robert Gordon's College, Aberdeen ; graduated M.A. (III Math. ), 1912, and distinguished himself as a sound mathematical and scientific student. Whilst at the University he served for four years in "U" Company, 4th Gordon Highlanders (T.F.), and was with the firm of Harrison and Crossfield, tea and rubber merchants, London, in their chemical research department, when war broke out. In the beginning of September 1914 he enlisted in the 18th (University and Public Schools) Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers, and in July of the following year was commissioned in the City of London Regiment. He went to France in January 1916, and was seconded to the Gas Services, R.E., being appointed D.G.O., 47th (London) Division, in October. He was promoted Captain early in 1918. His knowledge of chemistry stood him in good stead and he proved an excellent and most efficient Gas Officer, who enjoyed the confidence of the Staff and of all ranks in the Division. He was killed by a motor accident while on duty near the firing line beside St. Pol, 9 September 1918.
Date of Death: 09 September 1918
Burial Details: Buried at St. Pol British Cemetery, Plot 2, Row B, Grave 20.
Publication: Roll of Service, edited by Mabel Desborough Allardyce. Published 1921.
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