Centenarian Isobel Harling BEM passed away on St Andrews Day (31st Nov) in 2023. She was an inspirational figure who selflessly tended to the nine graves of Force K6 soldiers for nearly 70 years in Kingussie Cemetery whom she lovingly called ‘My Boys’. She tended to the nine Force K6 graves in Kingussie Cemetery for over 70 years.
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’.
In 2020 she was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her services (see 2020 entry). She was a Highland gem and an inspirational legend that left a wonderful legacy of selfless care and a wonderful example of humanity. She has been laid to rest in Kingussie Cemetery near the graves of the Force K6 soldiers. A ‘BBC Reporting Scotland’ short film was made highlighting her life and her funeral.
Her name is also highlighted in the ‘Force K6 memorial’ revealed in Kingussie’s Gynack Gardens in September 2022 and features in Unit 2 of our ‘Digital Schools Resource Pack’
Hear the story of Isobel Harling BEM as shared by her daughter, Gaynoll Craig.
Location: Kingussie, Scotland
Credit: BBC