Isobel Harling BEM

April 18th 1923 – November 31st 2023

Isobel Harling is an inspirational figure who dedicated more than 70 years tending to the nine graves of the Force K6 soldiers located in Kingussie, Scotland.

Also known as ‘Wee Mac’ by intelligence services during WW2, she was fondly remembered by her friends, family and her community as she was laid to rest opposite the graves of the Force K6 soldiers in Kingussie New Cemetery, whom she so fondly called ‘Her Boys’.

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 For more than 75 years, the former member of the Women’s Royal Naval Service tended to the graves of nine members of the Royal Indian Army Service Corps. The Muslim soldiers died while training in the Cairngorms during WW2, thousands of miles from their homes in the Punjab and North West Frontier. 97-year old Isobel has selflessly ensured they will never be forgotten. Today the local community came together with the families of the soldiers to celebrate Isobel’s award.

Isobel Harling Receives the British Empire Medal

On Armed Forces Day 2020, we paid tribute to the amazing Isobel Harling who has received the British Empire Medal for her tireless commitment to the Kingussie branch of Legion Scotland.

Reporting Scotland – Isobel Harling’s Funeral

The Colourful Heritage team attended the funeral service of Centenarian Isobel Harling BEM who passed away on St Andrews Day this year.

She will always be remembered.

Remembrance Words From Isobel Harling BEM

Listen to some words of remembrance from Isobel Harling BEM.

Gaynoll Craig – The Story of Isobel Harling

Gaynoll Craig, daughter of Isobel Harling BEM, gives a heartfelt talk about the story of her Mother and her relation with the soldiers of Force K6 buried in Kingussie whom she looked after their graves for over 70 years.

This took place at the Kingussie Remembrance Service, October 26th 2021.