The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Footballer killed in action honoured by former club
Celtic player Peter Johnstone was killed in action after volunteering to serve his country
A once forgotten footballer who lost his life on the battlefields of the First World War has been honoured by his club, Celtic.
Celtic captain Scott Brown was among club representatives in Glencraig yesterday afternoon to pay tribute to Peter Johnstone on the 100th anniversary of his death.
Johnstone was 29 when he was killed at the Battle of Arras.
Officials from Celtic and representatives of his regiment joined family members in celebrating his life.
His grandson, Jim Frew, said he would like his grandfather to be honoured at Celtic Park.
Asked how he felt about yesterday’s ceremony, the 74-year-old, said: “We’re trying to get a plaque put up at Celtic Park for those players and supporters that were killed in World War One.
“There were four other players that lost their lives and we would like to see something at the ground where the public can pay their respects.”
Professional footballer was one of a handful of protected professions at the beginning of the First World War, on account of its ability to bolster the country’s morale.
However, Johnstone volunteered for in early 1916, serving initially with the Argyll and Southern Highlanders before moving to the Seaforth Highlanders the following year.
He was reported missing on May 12 of that year as the Battle of Arras raged, and four days later reports of his death began to emerge.
There are conflicting reports as to how Johnstone died as his body was never recovered.
Despite his status as a Celtic player, little was known of Johnstone by the wider public before a memorial in his honour was erected in Glencraig two years ago.
A former miner, he signed for the Glasgow club in January 1908 having impressed at junior clubs in Fife.
He would go on to make more than 200 appearances in the famous hoops, winning four league titles and two Scottish Cups in his career.
Lisbon Lion Jim Craig was also present at yesterday’s ceremony and said Johnstone’s sacrifice seemed even greater given the comforts enjoyed by today’s professional footballers.
“We live in a different era now,” he said. “Even my generation had it better than those in 1916, with better facilities and better pay.
“Looking back 100 years ago it was a remarkable thing that he did.”
Looking back 100 years it wasa remarkable thing that he did. JIM CRAIG