Also Served: John Battle - John BATTLE
15, High Street, Prescot Gunner 84811, Royal Garrison Artillery John was a 28 year old Farm Labourer when he was called up for military service in St Helens on 19th June 1916. He stated that he had previously served with the Royal Irish Fusiliers and as he was single, he recorded his father Patrick, of Castlebar Co. Mayo as his next of kin.
He was initially posted to the 2nd Depot Battalion of the RGA, and then on 3rd July 1916, he was transferred to the 199th Heavy Battery.
John Battle's records show that he was frequently in trouble. On 21st August 1916, he was late for parade and confined to barracks for three days. He then absented himself without leave on 22nd December 1916 but was apprehended by the Garrison Military Police in Liverpool on the 28th. He was sentenced to 10 days Field Punishment No 2 and forfeited 15 days pay. On 28th January 1917, he was again late for parade when on Guard Duty, for which he was admonished.
He had a bout of scabies in February and March 1917 and was again late for parade on 30th March 1917. His records then show that on 21st April 1917, he deserted at Winchester, by which time he appears to be with No 1 Reserve Battery.
The Inquiry held at Winchester a few days later declared that he was still absent and that he owed the army 9 pounds 11 shillings and 1.5 pence in materiel (see image below).
I have not come across any further information about John Battle.
A document from John Battle's Court of Inquiry
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