David Blair was born in India where his father was serving as an Air Commodore in the RAF during World War 2. He was educated at Radley College and served during his National Service with the Seaforth Highlanders late obtaining a Regular Commission in the newly amalgamated Queen’s Own Highlanders (Seaforth and Camerons) in 1961.

After a career spanning important and varied appointments as Adjutant, Company Commander, ADC to the CGS and staff of the Army Staff College, as well as two years in Australia, he was regarded as a potential Chief of the General Staff. David Blair assumed command of the 1st Battalion Queen’s Own Highlanders in April 1979.

Lieutenant Colonel Blair took his regiment to South Armagh in July of that year for a four-month tour. On 27th August 1979 he was killed alongside his signaller and 16 members of the 2nd Battalion Parachute Regiment at Warrenpoint. He was just 40 years old and left a widow and two small children.

Research by David Terron

This oak headstone is currently on display in the Queen’s Own Highlanders room of the Museum and features the Roll of Honour for the Queen’s Own Highlanders, 1961 – 1994. Blair’s name appears amongst thirteen others who lost their lives during active service. The oak for the headstone was donated by the Earl of Moray.