John entered the war in France on 23rd November 1915. He was serving with the 141st Field Ambulance when, on 31st January 1918, he was awarded 28 days Field Punishment No 1 for overstaying his pass to the UK by one day. He rejoined the unit from the A.P.M., 1st Division on 18th February 1918. On 4th April 1918 he rejoined the unit from temporary duty with 1st Division, Motor Transport Coy. On 19th May 1919 he proceeded to the Concentration Camp for dispersal and was struck off the strength of the unit.