Other Information:John was educated at Watson's College, Edinburgh entering in 1896 and then became a student of medicine at the University of Edinburgh from 1902, graduating M.B., Ch.B. in 1908 and M.D. in 1914 - the title of his M.D. degree being "The Noguchi Luetin Reaction". After graduation he acted as resident house surgeon at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, resident medical officer at Charlmer's Hospital, and house surgeon at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh. John received his commission as Lieutenant in the R.A.M.C. on 24th January 1913, and served as Medical Officer to the 1st Cameron Highlanders in Edinburgh before leaving for the front in August 1914. During the Battle of the Aisne on the 25th September 1914, John was in a cave used partly as headquarters of the 1st Battalion Cameron Highlanders and partly as a collecting base for the wounded. Just after he had finished dressing a soldier's wound the roof, having been struck by a high explosive howitzre shell, fell in, killing him, together with five Staff officers and about thirty men. Two of the men were of the R.A.M.C. - they were 7138 Pte William Murdoch and 6987 Pte Harry Edward Sims. John was described as a man of considerable force of character and individuality. During his student days he took a leading part in the affairs of the Edinbugh University, and Dumfries and Galloway society and was an enthusiastic golfer and lawn-tennis player. As a pupil and student his career was most brilliant, and gave promise of a highly successful future in his chosen profession. He was the only son of William, Headmaster of Sciennes School, and Robertina Crocket of Balmmaghie, Edinburgh.
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