Military History

John was killed in action on 11 Dec 1915. At the time he was part of the 2nd Composite Yeomanry Regiment were involved in the defense of Mersa Matruh after a rebellion by the Senussi Bedouin sought to capture Mersa Matruh, Sollum and Da'aba. The following description of events on 11 Dec 1915 is taken from the book "The Warwickshire Regiment in the Great War by the Honourable H.A. Adderley".

"The force left Alexandria on November 26th 1915 and arrived as Dabas (the Railhead) next day; proceeding thence by the coast route to Matruh (85 miles) which they reached on December 8th. Great difficulties were experienced with the water supply as the wells were very low at the end of the dry season.

On December 11th orders were given to disperse a hostile gathering at Um Rakhum about seven miles west of Matruh, but owing to the bad going the Infantry were unable to co-operate. The Mounted Troops pushed forward and came to the enemy about 600 strong as the Wadi Senaab, charged them and drove them into the Wadi, but lost 16 killed and eight wounded including Sergt. Ravenhall, Pte. Doughty and Pte. Marsden of the Warwick Yeomanry.

In the action the armoured cars of the Royal Navy gave valuable assistance. Firing continued till dusk when the column concentrated at Um Rakhumm and spent the night in bivouack.

The enemy's losses were estimated at 100 killed and wounded, while British casualties amounted to 1 Officer and 13 O'R's killed and two Officers and 16 O.R's wounded.

The following day was spent in clearing the Wadi, capturing 25 prisoners and a number of camels and cattle abandoned by the enemy in their retreat, but the horses were too fatigued for further operations".