John Macdonald Smith, Balallan

27 August 1943
The death, through enemy action of Capt. John Macdonald Smith, RNR, eldest son of Mrs Smith, Erisort House, Balallan, and the late Mr John Smith, for many years headmaster at Carloway, has robbed Lewis of one of her most adventurous sons, at the early age of 46. When only 17 years of age, John Smith went out to the Hoogli, but, as soon as possible, he joined the RNR from which he was demobilised in 1919, with the rank of Lieutenant. A short period at home followed, but then he turned to the sea again, joining a ship which was trading with Mexico. A chance advertisement in a paper, and John left his ship to join the staff of the Mexican Eagle Oil Company, where he remained, eventually beocming assistant manager. In 1938, owing to the strained relations between Mexico and Britain, he had to leave at a moment's notice, with his wife and young son, to seek safety in the USA. A spell in Lewis followed, but, on outbreak of this war, Johnnie Mor again offered his services, which were accepted and he rejoined the RNR with the rank of Commander. His business training in Mexico came in very useful and before long his tact and organising ability were recognisedf. Promotion speedily followed, as well as very arduous tasks all over Europe. The handling of the supplies to North Russia was a task which occupied him for many months and during his sojourn there, he had many narrow escapes from death. On his recall from Russia, he was promoted Captain and was engaged in organising the transport of the vast quantities of men and material being shipped to Africa. His was a life which was full of thrills. He lived life and loved life, whether with rod or gun on the Lewis moors, stalking game in the jungles of Bengal or in the forests of Central America. To his wife, his son and his mother, brothers and sisters, we offer our sincerest condolences in the loss of a man who lived a straight, worthy and fearless life.