William Robertson (VC)
Lieutenant Colonel William Robertson was a Scottish recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.
Details
Robertson was 34 years old, and a sergeant-major in the 2nd Battalion, The Gordon Highlanders, British Army, during the Second Boer War when the following action took place at the Battle of Elandslaagte for which he was awarded the VC.Further information
Robertson was later commissioned into the Gordon Highlanders as a quartermaster with the rank of lieutenant, becoming a recruiting officer in 1907. In 1911 he is listed as "William Robertson VC", recruiting officer, living at 21 Lee Crescent in Portobello, Edinburgh. He was promoted captain in May 1910, major in May 1915, and lieutenant colonel in August 1917.In January 1918 he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for his service as a recruiting officer in Edinburgh, retiring in March 1920. After retirement he became honorary treasurer of the Royal British Legion Scotland and became a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in June 1946 for this service. He also served as a justice of the peace.
He died at home on 6 December 1949. He is buried in Portobello Cemetery with his family. The grave lies against the eastern boundary wall.