John Spence

Menin Gate Memorial. Authors image

S/18351 Private

‘D’ Coy, 5th Battalion, Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders, 26th Infantry Brigade, 9th (Scottish) Division

Age: 25

Date of death: 14 December 1915

Buried: Menin Gate Memorial, Panels 38 and 40

Family history: John was the husband of Mary Jane Spence. They lived at Manuelrigg Cottages, Polmont with their three children. His wife died on 28 September 1916 leaving the children in the care of her mother, Mrs S Kalley of 32 Whitehall Street, Newcraighall, Musselburgh, as their guardian

The action that led to his death

The Battalion was in the line at The Bluff.

Linesman. Trench map showing the British lines blue doted line. Trench R8 was located between Triangular Wood & the canal bank at The Bluff

The War Diary entry for the 14th December 1915 records:

War Diary

Interestingly, his father enlisted in Dec 1914 and was discharged under Kings Regulation Para. 392 (iii) 'Not being likely to become an efficient soldier.' on 8 December 1915. His father had previously served for three years in the 8 Battalion Royal Scots.

Medals Awarded

1915 Star, British War Medal Victory Medal

Private John Spence, Cameron Highlanders, Medal Index Card