Other Information
Although here is no evidence to prove it, it seems probable that John enlisted in the Seaforths at the same time as David Carmichael. Their service numbers are close together.
The Seaforths Medal Roll of Honour lists them consecutively.
Census 1911 at Chapel Place (22) born Leith, Grocer’s Assistant, son of Thomas (59) riveter on Forth Bridge and Mary (61)
On the morning of Monday 13th November 1916, the Seaforths were one of the lead battalions positioned in the British front line near Hawthorn Ridge close to the village of Beaumont Hamel.
They were flanked on the left by the 8th Argyll’s and on the right by the 6th Black Watch.
Their objective was to capture the village of Beaumont Hamel – which had been an objective for the British since the 1st July 1916.
There are many accounts of this battle and of note is the fact that the weather was described as atrocious, with heavy rain, thick mist and mud with a consistency of porridge.
History records at the end of the day that the village of Beaumont Hamel (or more accurately its broken ruins) were in British hands.
John and his brother David were both killed in this dreadful battle. They are buried close together.
