John McKusker, a 100-year-old veteran from Paisley, celebrated his milestone birthday in September. Born in 1924, John has lived through a century of change, hardship, and resilience. A veteran of the D-Day Landings during World War II, John reflects each year on the meaning of Remembrance Day, and why it’s a day that holds deep significance for him.
"Remembrance Sunday makes me remember all the fellows who didn't make it back," John says. "It brings back all the times we fought together… I was lucky that my name wasn't on a bullet or bomb. I think it's very important that we don't forget all the people who gave their lives to save our country."
John’s journey has taken him from his youth in Paisley to serving in the 51st Highland Division, and then to a quiet life on his own farm before facing the challenges of sight loss.
For John McKusker, Remembrance Day is more than a tradition. It’s a chance to honour the fallen, cherish those who returned, and remember the comrades who shaped his life. His story reminds us all of the importance of remembrance and the debt we owe to those who served.
From Farm to Frontline
Leaving school at 16, John initially worked on a farm until he was conscripted into the Army at 18. He joined the 51st Highland Division, where he quickly acquired specialised skills, including Morse code and driving a Bren carrier; a type of armoured vehicle used for transporting mortar crews.
John landed in France just four days after D-Day, joining the Allied efforts in Arromanches. Over the coming months, he drove mortar crews through Europe, from France to Belgium, Holland, and finally into Germany, playing a key role in supporting the advance against German forces.
After the war, John returned home, where his father helped him establish a new life by buying him a farm. He embraced the rhythm of farming, finding solace in the peaceful life it offered after the chaos of the war. For decades, he milked cows and worked the land, maintaining the farm until his retirement, when he moved to Winnoch 20 years ago.
In recent years, John faced a new challenge: losing his sight to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Adjusting to this life change was difficult, yet John has found invaluable support through Sight Scotland Veterans, an organisation dedicated to helping veterans living with visual impairments.
Through a friend’s recommendation, John was connected to Sight Scotland Veterans, where he received practical help and companionship. "This is a great organisation," John shared, “they have been so nice to us.”
Marking a Century of Memories
John celebrated his 100th birthday with three days of celebration alongside family, friends, and neighbours. A highlight was a visit from a piper and the head of the British Legion Scotland, which added a special touch to his milestone.
“I had a great 100th birthday with three days of celebration with family, friends and neighbours. A highlight was the piper who came out with the head of the British Legion Scotland. It's hard to believe that I've lived this long and witnessed so many changes.”
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