Duncan Wemyss McBride of Edgartown, a lifelong Island resident and World War II veteran, died on June 7 at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. He was 86.

He was born on Jan. 29, 1924, in Oak Bluffs, to Frank A. McBride and Florence Beasley McBride. He attended the Edgartown School and upon graduation in 1943, he joined the U.S. Army.

After undergoing training as a tank driver at Fort Knox, Ky., he was transferred to the infantry, serving in the 338th Infantry Regiment, 85th Infantry Division, also known as the Custer Division. Serving under General Mark Clark’s leadership of the Fifth Army, he landed in Naples, Italy and participated in battles at Rome, Arno, the North Apennines Mountains and the Po Valley.

One battle in particular was the brutal six-day assault on Mt. Altuzzo, near the Giogo Pass. This important victory led to the breakthrough in the German defenses on the Gothic Line, and to the strategic Po Valley. For this engagement the 338th regiment was awarded the Distinguished Unit Citation, the highest award given to units by the U.S. Army, and rarely given to units of regimental size.

Duncan’s time in the service was always very important to him, and for his service to our country he was awarded the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster and the letter V for heroism. He was also awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the Good Conduct Medal and Honorable Service Button. He was honorably discharged and attained the rank of sergeant.

Upon his return home he married Margaret Elliott in 1950. She was the daughter of Emulous (Em) Elliott and Ruth Elliott of Edgartown. At one time Duncan was post commander of the V.F.W. and enjoyed marching in the Fourth of July parades.

He worked as an independent landscape gardener for many years before retiring to enjoy playing golf and gardening at home. Golf was one of many sports he excelled at, and he was a good athlete. He managed the gardens at the Kelley House, Harbor View Hotel, and many fine homes in Edgartown, some of which were featured in magazine articles.

He was predeceased by a brother, John A. McBride, and a sister, Sarah McBride Cowie. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Margaret Elliott McBride, and many nieces, nephews and great and great-great nieces and nephews.

Military services were held on June 11 at the New Westside Cemetery in Edgartown.

Donations may be made in his memory to the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, P.O. Box 1477, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557.

Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman Cole and Gleason Funeral Home in Oak Bluffs; please visit ccgfuneralhome.com for online guest book and information.