Private James Leo McKay (4467178) served in 2nd Battalion Durham Light Infantry during the Second World War. He was the son of James McKay and Susan McKay (née McKeganey) of Drumquin, Co. Tyrone.
He died on 16th June 1944 aged 32 years old. 2nd Battalion Durham Light Infantry arrived in India in April 1942. They trained in jungle fighting tactics and practised amphibious assaults. As part of 6th Brigade, they fought in the Arakan in 1943. They faced strong Japanese opposition and fought a retreat. Further training took place in 1943-1944 and in April 1944, the Battalion was sent with 2nd Division to relieve Kohima. They suffered heavy losses and as they withdrew around a month later, could only muster 3 Companies of 2 Platoons each. Still, in June 1944, they lead the advance along the Imphal Road.
James Leo McKay’s grave is in Section 4, Row F, Grave 3 of Kohima War Cemetery, India. His headstone bears the inscription:
Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on the soul of James Leo. RIP.