John was educated at Robert Gordon’s College, and at Aberdeen University - graduating in Arts in 1909, then in 1913 he took his medical degree, with distinction, and was immediately appointed to a resident post at the Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen. He later became house surgeon to the Aberdeen Hospital for Sick Children. John obtained a commission in the R.A.M.C. on the outbreak of war, and was on duty at the Royal Victoria Hospital, London until he proceeded overseas to France. On 26th October 1914 he reported arrival to the Assistant Director of Medical Services, Rouen Base and was taken on strength as a temporary basis. He later joined the 9th Cavalry Field Ambulance, remaining with them thereafter. He was promoted to Captain after a years service, then in April 1918 he was mentioned in despatches for his courage and devotion to duty during the retreat of the 5th Army, and promoted to the rank of Major. John was severely wounded by a bomb on the night of 11th August, at the battle of Amiens. He was evacuated to No 49 Casualty Clearing Station and died there the following morning. One of the officers wrote to his family stating He was very brave and cheerful throughout it all, and everyone is full of admiration of his spirits. His loss to the ambulance is irreparable. John was the eldest son of William and Margaret Proctor of Ballater, Aberdeenshire.