Gilchrist enlisted into service on 2nd March 1916, he was 24 years and 1 month old, a Boot Repairer by trade and living at 9 Portland Park, Lanark. He was eventually called up for general service on 2nd August 1917 and posted to serve with the RAMC on the 10th the same month, he was then posted to 'R' Coy. On 25th February 1918 he was posted to serve on the hospital ship 'Glenart Castle. He was reported missing believed drowned on the 26th when they ship was torpedoed. His death was accepted by the War Office on lapse of time. Gilchrist was the son of William and Christina Lyon of 9 Portland Place, Lanark.