Hector Macdonald, 10 Tolsta Chaolais

Stornoway Gazette, 2 February 1940
It was with a feeling of shock and deep regret that the village learned on Tuesday morning, 23 January last, of the loss at sea of Hector Macdonald, fourth son of widow Alexander Macdonald of 10 Tolsta Chaolais. A naval reservist, he joined up last July for the Reivew and became a member of the crew of the ill-fated destroyer "Exmouth". Recently it was announced in the press that this warship had accounted for several enemy submarines, and we are sure, from our knowledge of him, that Hector played a gallant part in these successes. He had not been home since joining up and was expected early next month, but alas! Fate decreed otherwise. He was a most likeable personality, his quiet, unassuming ways winning for him friends, wherever he went. He is the first war casualty in the parish of Uig. Two brothers are also serving in the Navy. His death at the age of 23 is a heavy blow to his widowed mother, who recently lost her husband and youngest son. To her, his brothers and sisters, we extend our heartfelt sympathy in their tragic loss.

Stornoway Gazette, 9 February 1940
We all mourn the loss of Seaman Hector Macdonald, familiarly known as "Hocky", fourth son of the late Alexander Macdonald of 10 Tolsta Chaolais, who was lost on HMS Exmouth. He was one of three brothers, all called up in July last for the King's Review. He had not completed his training when war broke out, but later he was posted to HMS Exmouth. A lad of outstanding popularlity, a marked favourite in the family, he was well-liked by all who knew him, both young and old, not only in his native village, but in many parts of the district. He was one of the unlucky ones who had not been granted leave, but he was expected to come home this month. Words cannot express the feelings of his grieved mother, brothers and sisters, who, when looking forward to his safe return received news of his tragic death.