Lance Sergeant James Adair McBride (7012157) served in 2nd Battalion Royal Ulster Rifles during the Second World War. Known as Jimmy, he was the son of John McBride and Sarah McBride (née Adair) of 6 Lomond Street, Belfast.
Jimmy was born on 9th June 1914. He died on Wednesday 19th June 1944 aged 30 years old. At his time of death, Jimmy had 11 years’ service. Major JW Hyde wrote to John McBride on 3rd August 1944.
I presume that by now you will have received official notification of the death of your son on active service. His platoon was holding a position in an orchard north of Troarn, which was being heavily shelled by the enemy.
His trench received an almost direct hit, which killed him instantly and wounded several of his comrades, including his Platoon Officer. I know that no words of mine can ever make up for this grievous loss, but I am writing to offer you the heartfelt sympathies of myself and of all ranks in my Company.
Your son was one of the outstanding personalities of the Battalion – extremely popular with his men and a very good NCO indeed. I feel that I have lost not only an invaluable commander, but also a personal friend, and so long as I am commanding his comrades in action, I shall miss his cheerful personality and unflinching courage.
He was a grand soldier, and he died fighting in a magnificent cause. We shall never forget him, and feel very proud to have had him with us.
James Adair McBride’s grave is in Section I, Row A, Grave 26 of Banneville-la-Campagne War Cemetery, Normandy, France.