Grave of Angus soldier missing since 1918 identified in Belgium

The previously un-named grave of a soldier from Ferryden, Angus, who served with the Seaforth Highlanders been identified and rededicated in his name 108 years after his death on 22 September 2026. 

A rededication service for Private George Pert was organised by the UK MOD’s ‘War Detectives’ at CWGC Harlebeke New British Cemetery, Belgium. 

From a fishing village on the banks of the River Esk to the battlefields of Belgium, George Pert’s journey reflects the sacrifices made by ordinary people during the World War One. It was an honour to be there to pay tribute to his life and service.

Private Pert grew up in Ferryden, a traditional fishing village on the bank of the River Esk, before joining the Seaforth Highlanders. 

Just a month before the end of the war the Western Front saw a massive and rapid Allied advance that forced the German army into continuous retreat. It was on the 20 October 1918, during intense fighting around Harlebeke, that Private Pert lost his life. 

His body was never recovered, and he was officially recorded as missing. However, subsequent research submitted by a member of the public has shown that Private Pert was buried east of Harlebeke and moved to Harlebeke New British Cemetery after the war. 

Representatives of 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (Crown Copyright)

The service was supported by serving soldiers from The Royal Regiment of Scotland. Pert’s headstone, replaced by Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), now carries his name and today’s service commemorated his loss.  

 Polly Brewster, Commemorations Case Officer at CWGC, said: