Roll of Honour
Captain
Victor Baillie Hill
Military Cross
Student
Victor Hill was born in Birmingham and was 19 in the autumn of 1906 when he began his studies for a BSc at the University of Glasgow. His father, George Baillie Hill had already retired by that time and Victor took 'digs' in Hillhead during term-time. In his first year he enrolled for classes in Mathematics, Natural Philosphy, Chemistry and Mining, suggesting an interest in Engineering. The following year, he took Engineering, Mining, Engineering Drawing, Minerology and Mathematics. It does not seem that he was sure of success, however, for in his final year he enrolled tentatively for (most probably) Engineering, Mining and Mathematics. Certainly he left without a degree and entered the world of work. He enjoyed a game of golf and was a member of Douglas Park Golf Club.
Like many young men of his generation his aspirations in life had to take second place to his country's demands of him. He had been a member of the OTC at University and had remained active in it after he left and right up to the outbreak of war. He was commissioned right away and left for the Front with the 6th King's Royal Rifle Corps (Special Reserve). By 1918 he had achieved the rank of Captain, and earned a reputation for valour. Twice wounded and in great pain, he refused to leave the casualty dressing station before he had made all possible arrangements with his successor for the welfare of his men. He died of his wounds on 15th January 1918, having consistently shown "splendid courage and leadership". The award of his Military Cross (MC) was gazetted on 1st March 1918.
Captain Victor Baillie Hill is buried in France, at Wimeraux Communal Cemetery. He is remembered there and by the members of Douglas Park Golf Club where he played as a young man a century ago.
Comments and Citations
University of Glasgow Registry Records
Burial Place: Commonwealth War Graves Commission � Debt of Honour Register