John was educated at Portree Higher Grade School; at George Watson's College - entering in 1907 to 1908, and at Edinburgh University - entering in 1908 to 1915. He joined the Cadet Corps and the O.T.C. Infantry. He also became a Cadet in the R.A.M.C. (S.R.). John was a student of Arts and Medicine, qualifying M.A. in 1911, and M.B., Ch.B. in 1915. He gained a commission in the R.A.M.C. in July 1914, and was promoted to Captain on 16th October 1915. John was awarded the Military Cross “For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He tended and dressed the wounded under very heavy fire, displaying great courage and determination. Later, after his battalion had been relieved, he remained behind evacuating the wounded.” He died as result of an accident. He was the son of William and Catherine McCallum Orme of Helensburgh.