John Alexander (Ian) McGregor was born on 9th February 1893. In 1901, the McGregor family were living at Knockfarrie Lodge, Moulin, Perthshire: Father, Alexander (Gardener Domestic) (40); Mother, Annie (39); Son, John Alexander (8); Son, George Allan (5); Daughter, Mary C. (3); and Daughter, Christina Stewart (1). 

He was educated at the Higher Grade School Pitlochry and Perth Academy, and he studied at the University of Glasgow, graduating M.A. in 1916. He was training as a teacher, and was a member of the Glasgow University O.T.C. from 1914.

Ian enlisted as a Private in the 15th Battalion, Royal Scots on 30th September 1914, and was gazetted 2nd Lieutenant, 2nd Bn. Northumberland Fusiliers, on 5th April 1915. 

While serving during the Salonika Campaign in Greece he was, after officially being reported wounded and missing in action, killed on 10th September 1916, at Nevoljen. He was 23 years of age. His Colonel wrote “He was extremely conscientious in carrying out his duties and commanded his platoon in a very quiet way, which endeared him to his men,” A Brother Officer also wrote “He was brave and true to the last and saw to the safety of his men before thinking of himself.”

People’s Journal , 21st October 1916

“PERTHSHIRE HEROES IN BIG ADVANCE"

“Officers and Men in Casualty Lists"

“PITLOCHRY OFFICER KILLED"

“Mr Alexander M’Gregor, Knockfarrie Lodge, Pitlochry, has received official intimation that his eldest son, Second Lieutenant Ian M‘Gregor of the Northumberland Fusiliers, previously reported missing, was killed in action on 10th September."

"Lieutenant M’Gregor, who was 23 years of age, was training as a teacher, and took his degree of M.A. at Glasgow University shortly before the war broke out. He enlisted as a private in the Royal Scots, afterwards receiving his commission in the Northumberland Fusiliers, with whom he had been at the front for about nine months."

"Lieutenant M’Gregor was a keen student, and while at Glasgow was a contributor to the University Magazine. His only brother, George, is serving with the Royal Engineers.” 

Ian McGregor is also commemorated on the Pitlochry East Church War Memorial; and the Glasgow Provincial Training College War Memorial.