John McPherson Young - Link to Falkirk
- Admin
- Feb 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 16
Private 736525 served in the 19th Battalion (Central Ontario), part of the 4th Canadian Brigade, 2nd Canadian Division. Age: 36
Date of death: 10.11.17
Buried: Menin Gate Memorial Panel 18,
Family Background
John Wylie, the son of Catherine McPherson Wylie (formerly Young), lived at 143 Grahams Road, Falkirk. Originally born in Newcastle, his family relocated to Falkirk during his childhood. John was unmarried and resided in Bow Island, Alberta, Canada, where he worked as a miner. He enlisted on 16 February 1916 in Lethbridge, Alberta, and sailed for the UK on 7 October 1916. He arrived in Liverpool on 6 October and subsequently moved to East Sandling Camp in Kent. John joined the 19th Battalion in France on 3 May 1917. His military service was not without challenges. On 4 July 1917, he faced disciplinary action, receiving three days of Field Punishment No.1 for failing to comply with an order. Later, on 27 September, he was again sentenced to 21 days of Field Punishment No.1 for similar misconduct.
Action Leading to His Death
On 8 November, the Battalion moved from the Potijze area, taking over the right front line sector of the 2nd Division. From 8 to 12 November, they worked tirelessly to consolidate the front line around Passchendaele. This involved creating wire entanglements and establishing a defensive trench system. They also set up outposts in shell holes, connecting the fragmented pieces of trench. A strong point was established at Crest Farm. The situation became dire on 10 November when the Germans shelled the Battalion area relentlessly from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The combination of continuous bombardment and harsh weather conditions made the soldiers' tasks increasingly difficult. The Battalion was relieved by the 54th Battalion on 12 November. Battalion casualties for the period were two Officers wounded, Other Ranks 13 killed, 1 died of wounds, 59 wounded, 3 gassed, 3 missing, and 3 sick.
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