Military History

John is listed as being killed in action on 26h August 1918. The 5th Battalion war diary entries for the period 25th to 27th August are transcribed below.

Fricourt - 25 Aug 1918: During night moved to trenches S. of Fricourt Road. Batt. H.Q. moved also.

Carnoy - 26 Aug 1918 - 2am: Orders for C.O. to meet Bdr. Orders issued for attack E. of Carnoy at 4.00 - 4.30. Dispersed situation, Coy Cmdrs summoned and verbal orders given. Batt. Formed up ready to march at 3.30a.m. Marched by compass about 3 1/2 miles and reached forming up place at 4.45.

Barrage then over Battalion attacked R and L of village of Carnoy A and B Coys leading followed by C and D in rear. A and C on left, B and D on Right. Held up by heavy M.G. fire on final objective and heavy casualties ensued. Touch was made with London on R but failed to gain touch with 7 R. Sussex on left. Heavy fighting on left flank and enemy after 2 attempts rushed our left flank, and captured a number of our men.

2/Lt Stapleton killed trying to get away and many men dispersed. 2/Lt Tutton badly wounded and died. Medical Officer Capt W.M. Lansdale killed by shell at Batt. H.Q. previous evening.

Carnoy - 27 Aug 1918: Battalion moved forward and occupied 2 objectives, Queen Victoria St. and Bois Tailles with right on Machine Gun Wood. 9th R.F. attacked through us in morning gaining objective, Maltz Horn Farm. Guns moved forward, Batt. H.Q. moved to dugouts near Marincourt.