Captain John MacGregor, VC, MC and Bar, DCM, ED, spent his post-war years avoiding the fame that comes with a Victoria Cross. Ordered to accept the VC, as a very shy man, ‘Jock’ felt he was only doing his duty. His son, James A. Macgregor continued in his footsteps in the Second World War. A rear gunner in a Lancaster bomber, becoming a Pathfinder. Nicknamed ‘Lucky’ for surviving the worst position in air conflict.
This the story of Canada’s most decorated father and son combo. True heroes, in two world conflicts. Both, suffered personal anguish from their experiences, harboring guilt from what they had to do, and flashbacks (PTSD) from what they had seen. These were truly honorable men, the likes of which are extremely rare, especially today, and need to be remembered.
Captain John MacGregor
John MacGregor 116031 served in the Great War with C Squadron, 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles, first as a private soldier, and then as a commissioned officer. MacGregor earned the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) as a Private, the Military Cross (MC) as a Lieutenant, and a Bar to his MC as a Captain. And, he had yet to earn the Victoria Cross!
Early Life
Born near Nairn, Scotland, on 11 February 1888, John MacGregor moved to Canada in 1909. A carpenter before he enlisted with the 11th Canadian Mounted Rifles of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) on 26 March 1915. Previously, MacGregor had served for three years with the Garrison Artillery in Nairn.
Service of Captain John MacGregor
Service Summary
MacGregor rose quickly through the ranks in the CEF, starting with a promotion to sergeant in 1916, then to lieutenant in 1917, and finally to captain in 1918. Wounded twice in the line of duty and invalided for a period with influenza. Then, by September 1918, assigned to the 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles Battalion in France, fighting as part of Canadian Corps operations in the Last Hundred Days.
During the Great War, he was a highly decorated soldier, earning several military awards including the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his actions during the Battle of Vimy Ridge, the Military Cross and the Bar to Military Cross. And, of course, the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the British Empire.
Enlistment attempt
MacGregor a very handsome man, but when Jock first arrived in Prince Rupert, he went to the recruiting office in a rather disheveled state. The RSM threw him out for being unfit for duty in the Canadian army.
Over two decades later, another RSM will berate Jock as a sloppy soldier, a disgrace to the Company, the Regiment and to the whole Canadian Bloody Army. Jock’s good friend, a future fellow recipient of the Victoria Cross, Major-General George Pearkes, one of several high-ranking officer’s of both world conflicts to participate in a prank on the unfortunate RSM. The description comes later in this article during Jock’s Second World War service.
Meanwhile, Jock jumped on the next boat to Vancouver, cleaned himself up, and on 8 March 1915 he tried again. Enlisted as Private John MacGregor 116031 with the 11th Canadian Mounted Rifles. Jock stood 5′ 10″ tall, 178 pounds, with blues eyes and good physique.
Lt.-Col. W.E.L. Coleman noting MacGregor had 3 years prior service with the Garrison Artillery, Nairn, Scotland. Initial training took place in Vancouver, along with the 2nd Mounted Rifles (soon to be Jock’s unit). Then, John MacGregor proceeded to England to continue training, embarking 29 June 1915.
England
The 11th C.M.R. stationed at Shorncliffe Camp, Folkstone, Kent. Then, on 20 July 1915 John transferred to the 2nd C.M.R. After a short leave with his family in Cawdor, they embarked for France on 22 September 1915. Everyone in the CEF embarked for France. Although, the ultimate destination in 1915 always Belgium.
Ypres Salient
On 26 September 1915, Jock in the front lines of the Ypres Salient. Following his first week in the forward trenches, Private John MacGregor noted the dreadful conditions.
We supped, slogged, shit and slept in deep unrelenting mud.
Private John MacGregor
Every third week, the terror of the forward trenches recurred. Then, back to Divisional Reserve for a week, followed by another in Brigade Reserve. In the trenches at Maple Copse in early June, the 2nd C.M.R. are in billets at Godewaersvelde, near Mont-des-Cats during the debacle at Mount Sorrel in June 1916.
Something is brewing though, as all leave is stopped on 30 June 1916. The following day, the opening of the Battle of the Somme, and the 2nd C.M.R. begin to prepare for the Battle of Flers-Courcelette.
The Ramparts
A move made to Camp St. Lawrence on 15 July 1916, closer to the front lines, back in the Ypres Salient. Headquarters at the Ramparts in Ypres. Two weeks at Dormy House, and back to the Ramparts and Camp St. Lawrence by 28 July 1916. Then, the 2nd C.M.R. annual officer’s dinner held at Steenvoorde on 7 August 1916. Still among the Other Ranks, Jock will be attending in 1917.
Back in the trenches on 8/9 August 1916 in the Ypres Salient. A move to Camp Ottawa on 10 August, and back in the lines, relieving the 1st C.M.R. on 15/16 August. Grand Fleet Street in Poperinghe during the latter half of August. With great relief, the 2nd C.M.R. say goodbye to the Ypres Salient, and the Ross Rifle, and head to the Somme on 7 September 1916.
Battle of Flers-Courcelette
The Battle of Flers-Courcelette the entry of the tank during the Great War.
Promotion
Following the Battle of Flers-Courcelette, on 25 September 1916, John promoted from Private, straight to Sergeant. Then, on 16 October 1916, the 2nd C.M.R. pulled out of the Somme area, and sent to the Vimy area.
Battle of Vimy Ridge
For actions on 9 April 1917, MacGregor commissioned in the field to Temporary Lieutenant, and awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He single-handed, captured an enemy machine gun and shot the crew, thereby undoubtedly saving his company from many casualties.
London Gazette, No. 30204, 26 July 1917.
Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM)
The Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) was awarded to Warrant Officers, non-commissioned officers, and non-commissioned members, serving in any of the sovereign’s military forces, for distinguished conduct in the field. The second highest award for gallantry in action (after the Victoria Cross) for all army ranks below commissioned officers. Also available to Navy and Air Force personnel for distinguished conduct in the field.
Christmas 1917
Over the next few months the 2nd Battalion move in and out of the line over a wide front and, just before Christmas 1917, move into the area of Hill 70. On 28 December 1917, at Hill 70, Jock twice led reconnaissance patrols into No Man’s Land wearing white sheets as camouflage. Gaining valuable experience and familiarity of the terrain.
First Wound Stripe
Now, well-prepared for a trench raid on 12 January 1918. C Company’s lines less than 50 yards from the Germans, within shouting distance. At 0120 hrs, Jock’s raid party set out. Not quiet enough, soon discovered by the enemy, and they came under attack from bombs and rifle fire. Stalled, Jock personally amended the raid, changed the GOC’s orders, and led his men on. Such an initiative would normally require disciplinary measures. Jock’s commanding officer felt otherwise.
Military Cross Action
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Whilst he was assembling his men prior to a raid, the enemy bombed the trench. He, however, changing his point of attack, led his men over the wire into the enemy’s trench, and successfully dealt with the garrison of the trench and three concrete dug-outs, himself capturing one prisoner. He then withdrew his party and his prisoner successfully to our trenches.
Before the raid he, together with a serjeant, had made several skillful and daring reconnaissances along the enemy wire, which materially assisted in the success of the enterprise.
London Gazette, No. 30845, 16 August 1918.
After this action, Jock given 14 days leave and during that leave promoted to Temporary Captain. For the reconnaissance and the attack, Captain John MacGregor awarded the first of his two Military Crosses.
Military Cross (MC)
The Military Cross can be awarded to Commissioned Officers of the substantive rank of Captain or below (therefore acting and temporary Majors are eligible) or Warrant Officers for distinguished and commendable services in battle.
In 1920, the terms were altered to clearly state the award was for gallant and distinguished services in action and that naval and air force officers could be awarded the cross for gallant and distinguished services on the ground.
Pleurisy
MacGregor sent back from the lines at Loos with diagnosis of Influenza, No. 4 C.C.S. Pain developed left side, and a pleuritic friction sound heard over the 8th to 10th ribs. Subsequently, admitted to No. 24 General Hospital Etaples, on 19 April 1918.
Transferred to Anstie Orange Hospital, Holmwood, England, on 26 April 1918. Then, transferred to Canadian Convalescent Hospital, Matlock, 23 May 1918. Treated at Canadian Officer’s Hospital in Witley on 7 June 1918.
Finally, discharged 14 June 1918. MacGregor headed back to the Western Front, and becomes a key participant in Canada’s Last Hundred Days. Although, Jock misses the big show, the opening day of the Battle of Amiens, through no fault of his own, arriving ten days late to the front.
Battle of Cambrai
For the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, and the 2nd C.M.R., the Battle of Cambrai the bloodiest engagement of the war. Greater losses than the Somme, Vimy Ridge and Passchendaele.
The incredible success of the Canadian Corps in our Last Hundred Days simply not sustainable as there were no reinforcements to come. The planned 5th Division already delivered to the first four divisions.
Second Wound Stripe
During the period 29 September to 3 October 1918 near Cambrai, France, Captain John MacGregor acted with most conspicuous bravery and leadership. Led his company under intense fire, and although wounded, located and put out of action enemy machine-guns checking progress, killing four and taking eight prisoners. He then reorganized his command under heavy fire and in the face of stubborn resistance continued the advance.
Later, after a personal daylight reconnaissance under heavy fire, he established his company in Neuville St. Remy, thereby greatly assisting the advance into Tilloy-lès-Mofflaines. For this action Captain John MacGregor DCM MC awarded the Victoria Cross.
Victoria Cross Actions
Captain John MacGregor awarded the Victoria Cross for these actions. Afterward, he reorganized his command while facing continued heavy fire, and he offered support to neighbouring troops. As the German lines continued to resist, he defiantly moved along the front lines. Many other officers wounded or killed in action, so MacGregor took command of platoons, organized waves of soldiers and pushed the advance forward.
During daytime reconnaissance under suppressive fire, Captain John MacGregor established his ‘C’ company in Neuville-St.-Remy, which greatly assisted the advance into Tilloy-lès-Mofflaines. Throughout the operation across the Canal du Nord and leading toward Cambrai, Captain John MacGregor demonstrated supernatural leadership and bravery in the face of danger.
VC Citation
For most conspicuous bravery, leadership and self-sacrificing devotion to duty near Cambrai from 29th September to 3rd October, 1918.
He led his company under intense fire, and when the advance was checked by machine guns, although wounded, pushed on and located the enemy guns. He then ran forward in broad daylight, in face of heavy fire from all directions, and, with rifle and bayonet, single-handed, put the enemy crews out of action, killing four and taking eight prisoners. His prompt action saved many casualties and enabled the advance to continue.
After reorganising his command under heavy fire he rendered the most useful support to neighbouring troops. When the enemy were showing stubborn resistance, he went along the line regardless of danger, organised the platoons, took command of the leading waves, and continued the advance. Later, after a personal daylight reconnaissance under heavy fire, he established his company in Neuville St. Remy, thereby greatly assisting the advance into Tilloy. Throughout the operations Capt. MacGregor displayed magnificent bravery and heroic leadership.”
London Gazette, No. 31108, 6 January 1919
Victoria Cross (VC)
The Victoria Cross is awarded for most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour, self-sacrifice or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy.
Bar to Military Cross
Just before the end of the war, between 5-8 November 1918, through Captain John MacGregor’s personal reconnaissances, and initiative, the bridges over The Honnelle River secured. Captain John MacGregor’s prompt action in seizing the crossings did much towards the final rout of the enemy. For this action, Captain John MacGregor awarded a Bar to his MC.
Captain John MacGregor granted ten days leave to Paris, 21 December 1918. Rejoined his unit on 4 January 1919.
At Buckingham Palace on 26 February 1919, His Majesty the King decorated Captain John MacGregor with the Victoria Cross and also a bar to his Military Cross.
Demobilization
The Canadians left for home on 17 March 1919. Back in their homeland there were parades and receptions for the homecoming heroes and John, along with other VC holders, always in great demand.
Demobilized, and struck off the Canadian Expeditionary Force Register on 9 April 1919 in Vancouver. Arrived back in Prince Rupert on 16 April 1919. He took various jobs, but Captain John MacGregor found it hard to adapt to civilian life again.
Post Great War
Appointed Major John MacGregor, North B.C. Regiment, 15 July 1921. In 1923, John walking along one of the timber docks when an explosion occurred on one of the docked ships. The boat well alight when he reached, and he jumped on deck. With an axe, he cut the lines and pushed it away from the dock.
Thinking quickly, he then leaned over the side, and hacked a hole in the side to sink the vessel. His prompt action saved the wooden dock from going up in flames, and saved the local fishing industry. Although very seriously burned, he ended up in the local hospital where he would meet his future wife, Nurse Ethel Flower.
Marriage
Married in Vancouver in 1924, but his wife Ethel did not want to return to Prince Rupert. Powell River had a large paper mill, and always required carpenters. Jock found it appealing, as he hated his notoriety in a bigger town. In July 1925, the MacGregor’s moved into the house Jock built (now on MacGregor Avenue), with their new son James. Unfortunately, Jock soon lost his job when he refused to pay graft. Apparently, his reputation still unknown to those in Powell River. This forced Jock to look further and further from home for work.
In 1929 the Prince of Wales held a dinner for all Victoria Cross recipients in London, England. George Pearkes persuaded Jock to attend. Regretfully, he accepted, knowing his anonymity would be lost.
On 9 May 1930, appointed Major, 2nd Reserve Battalion, North B.C. Regiment. Later, Jock commanded the Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s), a reservist infantry regiment based on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, beginning 14 February 1936. He went on to serve again in the Second World War, rising to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel.
Second World War
Jock attested for the third time on 20 June 1940. The story of his second attestation earlier in June, mentioned later in this article. John MacGregor now a Major in the 1st North British Columbia Regiment. Assigned to the 2nd Battalion, on 1 July 1940.
In August 1943, sent to Britain for a four month detachment. He was able to meet his eldest son James, who had joined the Royal Canadian Air Force as a Pilot Officer. A rear gunner in bombers, he would be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, making Jock and his son the most decorated father-son combination in Canadian Military History.
Post Second World War
Jock returned to Canada, and discharged from the Army on 11 May 1946. He then set up a gravel business outside Cranberry, Powell River – MacGregor Concrete. In late 1949, he was failing to show up for work. His youngest son Donald began managing the business.
Suffering from repeated pains in his stomach, sent to the Shaunessy Veterans’ Hospital in Vancouver. The hospital at first thought nothing physically wrong with John, so they consigned him to the River View Mental Hospital. At first he would not go. But, when he became too sick for his wife, Ethel, to care for him, he was admitted.
Sadly, River View did nothing to help. Finally, in December 1950, discharged with the diagnosis, ‘Involutional Phychosis’ and record marked ‘a malingerer’. At the time, PTSD seldom recognized, nor understood. The “P” in PTSD may occur long after the trauma, as was the case with Jock.
Return to work
Jock’s condition worsened and, in January 1951, re-admitted to River View. The hospital still took the view nothing wrong with him. He did manage to be taken back on by Powell River Company as a carpenter. He went to Vancouver Island, site working again, building accommodation for lumbermen. Again, the black dog returned, but now something else would threaten Jock’s well-being. When he ate, he vomited.
Cancer
On 22 December 1951, Jock climbed a ladder to finish a roof. Suddenly, a great, searing pain hit his abdomen, and he collapsed. A tumor, the size of a grapefruit, slipped out below his diaphragm. Flown out of the hospital at Alert Bay to Vancouver General Hospital. Jock had stomach cancer. Treated, he was sent home to die.
On 1 June 1952, Ethel could no longer care for him, and Jock admitted to Powell River General Hospital. He died only eight days later, on 9 June 1952. Laid to rest in Cranberry Lake Cemetery, Powell River. Piped to his last resting place by the pipe band he had helped to form. Brigadier Jack Adams a pall bearer. Three holders of the Victoria Cross attended his funeral. Major-General George Randolph Pearkes, VC; Lieutenant-Colonel Cyrus Wesley Peck VC; and Captain Charles William Train VC.
Major General George Randolph Pearkes VC
George Pearkes died on 30 May 1984 in Victoria, B.C. Commemorated at the Holy Trinity Cemetery, Section 4 – West, West Saanich, Sidney, Victoria, British Columbia.
Major General George Randolph Pearkes Victoria Cross Citation
For most conspicuous bravery and skilful handling of the troops under his command during the capture and consolidation of considerably more than the objectives allotted to him, in an attack. Just prior to the advance Major Pearkes was wounded in the thigh. Regardless of his wound, he continued to lead his men with the utmost gallantry, despite many obstacles.
At a particular stage of the attack his further advance was threatened by a strong point which was an objective of the battalion on his left, but which they had not succeeded in capturing. Quickly appreciating the situation, he captured and held this point, thus enabling his further advance to be successfully pushed forward.
It was entirely due to his determination and fearless personality that he was able to maintain his objective with the small number of men at his command against repeated enemy counter-attacks, both his flanks being unprotected for a considerable depth meanwhile.
His appreciation of the situation throughout and the reports rendered by him were invaluable to his commanding officer in making dispositions of troops to hold the position captured.
He showed throughout a supreme contempt of danger and wonderful powers of control and leading.
London Gazette, No. 30471, 8 January 1918.
Fooling the RSM
Following the Great War, General George Pearkes VC, Colonel Cyrus Peck VC, Colonel G.W.L. Nicholson and (now Major) John MacGregor VC had all kept in touch. They met on several occasions, living in fairly close proximity to each other. John actually held the rank of Major in the North Coast British Columbia Regiment when the Second World War broke out.
Decision to Enlist
On 2 June 1940, Jock now living in Vancouver. Took the ferry to Victoria and enlisted as a private in the 2nd Canadian Scottish Regiment commanded by Lt.-Col. Babty. Jock claimed no prior military experience on his attestation. Pearkes soon caught wind of Jock’s enlistment, as a private nonetheless, and decided to pay the Regiment a visit. During inspection, General Pearkes marched along the ranks followed by Babty as Battalion Commander. Then, by Major Jack Horne as Company Commander, by Lieutenant Denny Green, and finally by the real victim of the prank – the RSM.
Inspection
MacGregor standing at attention in the second rank as the inspecting party approached. Just as he passed Jock, still staring straight-ahead, Pearkes pivoted and gave MacGregor a rather disgusting look from head-to-toe. Pearkes continued, and with a backward thumb said to Babty, “That man, in your office after parade.” Playing along, Babty repeated the order to Major Horne, who repeated it to Lt. Green, and in turn, finally relayed the message to the rather embarrassed Sergeant Major.
After the parade, a now furious RSM inspected John from head-to-toe, noting all the perceived issues with this over-the-hill Private. Firstly, any RSM will find the minutest of detail wrong with your kit, uniform or even how you smell, unless your first name is Billy. Secondly, the RSM found absolutely nothing to his satisfaction. Jock berated as a sloppy soldier. A disgrace to the Company, and the Regiment. In addition, to the “whole Canadian Bloody Army”, the RSM shouted nose-to-nose with Jock.
The Sting
Now marching the lowly Private MacGregor into Babty’s office, the RSM, fully puffed-up, announced “Private MacGregor, as ordered, Sah!”
Pearkes standing to the left of Babty’s desk looking out the window, gave the General no time to respond to the RSM. “Where’s the ribbon, Jock?”, then he spun around and again, did not allow Jock time to reply.
Major John MacGregor VC MC and Bar, DCM. They wouldn’t let you in I suppose. Well you’re bloody well in now.
General George Pearkes VC
Pearkes had one more thing to add, now addressing Colonel Babty.
You remember this man, he served you well in the last war and he will serve you well in this one. You’ve been looking for a new company commander. You’re lucky it’s going to be John.
General George Pearkes VC
Of course, it would not be appropriate to name the unfortunate RSM.
Lt.-Col. Cyrus W. Peck VC
Cyrus Peck died on 27 September 1956 of a heart attack and is buried at New Westminster Crematorium, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Lt.-Col. Cyrus Wesley Peck VC Citation
His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the award of the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned Officers, Noncommissioned Officers and Men: —
Lt.-Col. Cyrus Wesley Peck, D.S.O., Manitoba R.
For most conspicuous bravery and skilful leading when in attack under intense fire.
His command quickly captured the first objective, but progress to the further objective was held up by enemy machine-gun fire on his right flank.
The situation being critical in the extreme, Colonel Peck pushed forward and made a personal reconnaissance under heavy machine-gun and sniping fire, across a stretch of ground which was heavily swept by fire.
Having reconnoitred the position he returned, reorganised his battalion, and, acting upon the knowledge personally gained; pushed them forward and arranged to protect his flanks. He then went out under the most intense artillery and machine-gun fire, intercepted the Tanks, gave them the necessary directions, pointing out where they were to make for, and thus pave the way for a Canadian Infantry battalion to push forward. To this battalion he subsequently gave requisite support.
His magnificent display of courage and fine qualities of leadership enabled the advance to be continued, although always under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire, and contributed largely to the success of the brigade attack.
War Office, 15th November, 1918
Captain Charles William Train VC
Captain Charles William Train VC buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Burnaby, British Columbia (died 28 March 1965).
Headstone
In 2008 the Commonwealth War Graves Commission supplied a new headstone. His two sons attended the unveiling in wheel chairs. They died months later, only 11 days apart.
A very humble man, Captain John MacGregor never talked of his wartime achievements. He valued two items more than the Victoria Cross. His efficiency decoration (for serving in both wars, and twenty years of service), and his Canadian Citizenship papers. His son, Don MacGregor, recalls how his father, so excited about receiving his Citizenship papers, he exclaimed. “These are the greatest awards Canada has ever given me”. MacGregor’s Victoria Cross and other medals are on display at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.
John’s medal group: Victoria Cross, Military Cross and Bar, Distinguished Conduct Medal, 1914-18 Star, British War Medal 1914-20, The Victory Medal 1914-19, 1939-45 Star, Voluntary Service Medal Canada and Clasp, 1939-45 War Medal, King George VI Coronation Medal 1937 and Territorial Force Efficiency Decoration (ED), held by the Canadian War Museum, Ottawa.
James Allistair Macgregor DFC and Bar, ED, PFF
James A Macgregor continued in his father’s foot steps. As rear gunner in a Lancaster bomber, conducted over 55 tours, becoming a Pathfinder. Nicked-named ‘Lucky’ for surviving the worst position in air conflict. James told his son, he did so by removing the tracer bullets out of his machine gun.
I know where I am shooting, no need to let them know where I am.
James A Macgregor
James born in Powell River on 22 May 1924 to Ethel and Col. John (Jock”) MacGregor (V.C., M.C. and Bar, D.C.M., E.D.).
Jamie enlisted in the R.C.A.F. in 1942 at age 17, based in England during the Second World War as a rear gunner with the 156th Pathfinder Squadron, flying one of the most beautiful airplanes, the Avro Lancaster bomber. His exploits earned him his nickname Lucky”, after surviving 55 missions (2 tours) over Europe, a plane and train crash.
DFC and Bar
Awarded the DFC and bar. For saving his crew in a downed Lancaster, on fire, pulling the trap crew out.
Demobilization
Upon returning to Canada, Jamie married Florence, and they set up house in Powell River, where he, like his father before him, built his own house.
In 1951 he re-enlisted, taking various postings including Vancouver (Jericho), Tofino, Holberg, Falconbridge, Sudbury, Beausejour, Syracuse, New York, and finally returning to Holberg. Then, in 1968 he retired from military life, and set up his home in Victoria where he worked for several years as a top selling realtor.
Second Marriage
In 1982, he married Betty and, with her, content to tend his garden (specializing in gladiolas and dahlias), and to sit at his computer honing his newly discovered passion, writing. He tended his flower stand and in 2002, at age 78, had his first book published, a biography of his father. A second manuscript was completed and may be published posthumously.
Death
MACGREGOR, James Allistair, Captain, DFC, ED, PFF, RCAF (Retired). Jamie finished his last chapter, at home, in Victoria on 24 July 2008.
Jamie left his wife Betty; step-son Dean Hill (Alex, Jordan and Daniel) step granddaughter Sadie; Greg Hill and partner John; brother Donald; sons Lance (Helen) and Donald (Carol); grandsons Robert (Caitlin), and Thomas; stepson Tony (Miranda), step-son Sean (Wendy) and step-daughter Caroline. His son Barry predeceased him in 1968.
The MacGregor Family, Canada’s most decorated father and son. True heroes, in two world conflicts.
Epilogue
John MacGregor honoured in his birthplace of Scotland on Saturday, 29 September 2018, 100 years to the day from the start of the Battle of the Canal du Nord, in which he was awarded the Victoria Cross, the Commonwealth’s highest military honour.
When it learned of the event, the Royal British Legion Scotland in Nairn planned for a commemorative stone to be housed at the local cenotaph.
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