A Forgotten Piper’s Journey: Honouring Piper James McLean
The story of Piper James McLean, service number 2979505 of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, is one of extraordinary courage, resilience, and sacrifice. This year, as we approach the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, it is time to shed light on his remarkable life and offer the recognition he has long deserved.
The Story of Piper James McLean
James McLean and his fellow Piper Stuart served as pipers with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders during the Second World War. Their role wasn’t simply to play music — they were tasked with lifting the spirits of the troops under the most perilous conditions. One of the most harrowing examples of their bravery was when they piped the troops over the Johore Causeway as the British forces withdrew into Singapore, keeping morale alive in the face of imminent danger.
Despite their unwavering bravery, neither James nor Stuart received formal recognition or mentions in dispatches for their actions. After the fall of Singapore in 1942, James McLean became a Far East Prisoner of War (FEPoW). His experience during captivity is a story of survival against all odds. He endured the horrors of the Death Railway, survived the bombing of three “hellships” transporting prisoners, and was eventually forced to work in the Mitsui coal mines under brutal conditions.
He returned home with scars, both visible and invisible, and like many FEPoWs, struggled in silence with the trauma of his experiences. James McLean passed away in 1984, alone and unrecognized, buried in a communal grave — his story forgotten by many, but not by those who care about the legacy of these unsung heroes.
A Dedication Service for Piper James McLean: Honouring a Forgotten Hero
The dedication service was held in Crawley, Sussex, where Piper James McLean was laid to rest in a communal grave, alone and unrecognized for 40 years after his passing in 1984. This solemn occasion will finally offer the tribute he was denied in life, a moment to acknowledge his courage and sacrifice.
The ceremony included
• Piping Tribute: In honour of his service as a piper, the event will begin with the haunting laments of the bagpipes, echoing the same resilience and strength he displayed when he piped his comrades into battle and through the horrors of war.
• Readings and Reflections: Family members, friends, and supporters will share stories of James McLean’s bravery, the challenges he faced, and the legacy he leaves behind. His story will be told not only to remember him but to shed light on the experiences of all Far East Prisoners of War who suffered in silence.
• Moment of Silence: A pause to reflect on James’s sacrifices and those of his fellow FEPoWs, who endured the brutal realities of captivity and returned home with unseen scars.
• Floral Tributes and Commemoration: Wreaths and flowers will be laid at his gravesite, symbolizing the peace, honour , and dignity he so richly deserves Guests included Mp Henry Smith , council members, representatives of SSAFA, the royal British legion , the local veterans breakfast club and members of the Grangemouth Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Association . Thanks to John Graham the chairman who organised the order of service
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