54075: Photograph of Thomas N. F. Hourston and friends passing out from the OCTU.

The OCTU was the Officer Cadet Training Unit.

Editor's Comment:
Group of six officers in the uniform of the Highland Regiments. Note that three wear kilt aprons, and one a wrap around kilt cover for camouflage.

Captain Thomas Nicol Folster Hourston, 10th Bn. Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (9th (Scottish) and later 32nd Division) served as Adjutant of his battalion from 16th February 1918. He began his war as a Private, service no. 2796 in the London Regiment, and was comissioned 5th August 1916. Originally from Orkney. His Military Cross Citations are as follows:

Supplement to the London Gazette, 26th July 1917: 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He took command of his company during the advance and handled it with great coolness and ability. Although wounded he continued to command for 48 hours.'

Supplement to the London Gazette, 10th December 1919: 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty at Joucourt and Chataigries Wood from 29th September to 5th October, 1918. During a determined counter-attack by the enemy, when the situation was very obscure, he went up on his own initiative and organised two companies in defensive positions, completely restoring the situation at a critical time. He was of great assistance to his C.O. through five very difficult and tryirig days.'