Background to the story
This is the story of a significant part of the life of James Sinclair of Furnace in Mid Argyll. Like many men of his generation, Jimmy went to war with schoolmates and other young men from the area, a high proportion of whom died in action. Most served in the 8th Battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and were involved with the battalion in the catastrophe that befell the 51st (Highland) Division at St Valery-en-Caux in June 1940. Jimmy’s reflections on that experience (as on everything else) were and remain objective and wise. He was embarrassed by this description, but it would be hard to find anyone who knew him who would not agree with it.
Since this story was written James Sinclair has died but this story, told in his own words, keeps him alive in the present, which is where he belongs.
Please use the ‘Comment’ box at the end of the story to add your own memories - and photographs - of Jimmy. His family will appreciate watching this story grow and learning more about him.
