Hugh Hagan Breckenridge was born in 1893 to John Breckenridge, labourer, and Jane Hagan; he was one of at least five children. Hugh's sister Annie Adams Breckenridge was born at 75 Wellington Street in 1891. She was later married to Diffen Rose. Annie lived to the age of 81. Hugh's younger brother Walter was born in 1895 and served in the Royal Navy. Walter died in 1972. Hugh's other siblings, Jane and John were born at 35 West Shaw Street.

Hugh saw combat at Gallipoli, in Palestine, and in France. Hugh's service in the British Territorties earned him the Territorial Medal. Hugh signed up for overseas service in 1915 and spent the remainder of his service away from home in the trenches. Hugh was one of less then 30 men of his regiment of 600 pre war enlisted men to serve and survive the war. Hugh was by the war's end promoted to Regimental Sgj. Major.

Hugh caught pneumonia in France and returned home early in 1918, before the rest of his battalion. On July 11, 1918, he married Catherine Wilson McKay in St. George Square Baptist Church. 
Hugh became a stonemason. Hugh and Catherine lived at 39 Holmscroft Street with their 4 children; 3 sons John, Hugh and George; one daughter Anne. Hugh's sons Hugh and John went on to serve with honour in WW2. Hugh died in 1933 from TB, as a result of lung damage from his war service. He was buried with full military honour in Greenock.

Honours

Distinguished Conduct Medal

Honours

Distinguished Conduct Medal- in silver

"During the period 25th February - 17th September, 1918. He has performed continuous good service and shown great devotion to duty. During operations at Beugneux, 29th July, 1918 to 1st August, 1918 when his C.O.'s were all casualties, he took command of his company and acted with conspicuous gallantry, organising it under very heavy rifle fire. His contempt of danger and devotion to duty were a splendid example to his men." London Gazette,1918

Images relating to Hugh Breckenridge

Hugh Breckenridge medals