Murdo Macleod, 5 Tolsta Chaolais

Stornoway Gazette, 6 December 1940
It was with deep sorrow that the people of the village and district learnt of the death on active service of seaman Murdo Macleod, RNR, third son of Mr and Mrs M Macleod, 5 Tolsta Chaolais. at the early age of 21 years. Murdo was one of the first in the district to leave the loom and volunteer for the Naval Review in July, 1939. He had the distinction of being one of the few chosen to represent his ship and go on board the King's flagship for inspection by the King. At the outbreak of war, he joined HMS Express and from then until the time of his death, he was constantly at sea. He assisted in the evacuation of Dunkirk, making 8 trips in all across the Channel and came through that awful ordeal of terror from sea and air unharmed. He was lost when HMS Express was sunk. A lad of fine physique, he was very popular in the village, being a general favourite among young and old. Of a kind and genial disposition, he had a cheery word for all with whom he came in contact. He was of a very obliging nature and always ready and willing to lend a helping hand when needed. He had a ready smile for all and is very much missed in the village. One of his brothers, L/Cpl James Macleod, Seaforths, is a prisoner of war in Germany. Another brother, seaman Donald J Macleod, is serving on HMS Comorin. Sincere sympathy is felt for his sorrowing parents, brothers and sister in their irreparable loss. Much sympathy is also felt for his grandparents, who also deeply mourn his loss. During his schooldays he was constantly with them, being almost like a son to them. His memory will long be green in his native village.