The MacCrimmon War Veterans
Honoring Our Local Heroes: A Tribute to MacCrimmon Family Members Who Served in WWI and WWII
This fall marks the 200th anniversary of the Malcolm and Isabella MacCrimmon’s emigration from Scotland to North Glengarry. Their descendants went on to honourably serve in the Canadian Forces in World War I and World War II. As we reflect on the sacrifices made by countless Canadians during the two World Wars, it is important to take a moment to honor those who not only served in uniform but whose courage, commitment, and dedication were passed down through the generations.
The Call to Serve
The outbreak of World War I in 1914 and World War II in 1939 marked some of the darkest times in world history. Yet, the response from Canadians was nothing short of extraordinary. Over 61,000 Canadians made the ultimate sacrifice during the First World War, and over 45,000 during the Second World War. Many more returned home wounded, physically and mentally, but with an unwavering pride in their service.
Families across our community answered the call to defend peace and freedom. Fathers, brothers, and sons enlisted, driven by a profound sense of patriotism and duty to their country. For many, it was not just a personal decision—it was a family affair. In many households, service was a shared experience, with multiple members stepping forward to serve in the military.
Local Heroes: A Legacy of Service
World War I
Malcolm McCrimmon 1895 - 1989
Donald Archie MacCrimmon 1897 - 1977
James Greenfield MacCrimmon 1897 - 1973
Melvin D. MacCrimmon 1915 - 1990
World War II
Alex Williams 1921 - 2004
Patrick Lloyd Williams 1919 1944 (killed in action in Italy)
Cecil MacCrimmon 1919 - 2005
Donald Rory MacCrimmon 1907 - 1969
Duncan Fraser MacCrimmon 1923 - 1994
Callum MacCrimmon 1920 - 2003
The Families and Community Behind the Soldiers
Before servicemen left the community to go and serve, family and neighbours would gather together to share good wishes, bid farewell, and present the serviceman with a well-filled purse. An address given at the home of Mr. and Mrs. M. F. MacCrimmon prior to James Greenfield MacCrimmon’s departure was reported in the local newspaper and included the following passages:
“We fully realize that your departure from our midst will mean a great loss to us, but we rest assured that our loss will be going to the Allied cause in which capacity you are about to set.
We deeply regret to have you leave us; we would like to have you with us, but we love honour more. We know full well that you will merit every confidence we wish to place in you as a soldier of His Majesty and we sincerely hope should you have occasion to assail the aggressive hit, that you survive the ordeal and escape unscathed and return to our midst again.
You see around you tonight a multitude of faces who have always been interested in your welfare. You can understand the feeling of sorrow and affection with which they view your departure, especially one that has been endeared as you have been by so many fond ties and associations. As a memento of our high appreciation of what you have been to us and your kindness and of your affection and esteem for you personally, we beg of you to accept this token of our esteem – not so much for its intrinsic value, which itself is slight – as for the loving spirit that animates the givers.
Signed Neighbours and Friends “
While much of the attention during the wars focused on the soldiers in the trenches or in combat zones, we must not forget the families at home who also served in their own way. Wives, children, and parents endured long separations, often with little word from their loved ones, while simultaneously carrying the emotional and financial burdens of the war effort.
A Community United in Remembrance
As we reflect on the legacy of our local heroes—those who served in the First and Second World Wars and the generations who followed in their footsteps—we are reminded of the deep connection that binds our Glengarry community. We honor them by passing their stories down to the next generation, ensuring that their courage is never forgotten.
In Remembrance: To all those who served, and to those who never returned, we will always remember. We are proud of your service and will continue to honor your memory for generations to come.
The Malcolm and Isabella MacCrimmon family story will continue in the months to come with chapters outlining pioneer work to establish a home and the farm, contributions to the community of Dunvegan and personal achievements. The official reunion marking 200 years on the family farm is scheduled for July 5, 2025.
The MacCrimmon Reunion Committee
