Mexborough and Swinton Times May 18, 1918

Pte. John Willie Shaw
Machine Gun Corps

69, Frederick Street, Mexborough, formerly of Bowbroom, Swinton, was killed in action on March 28. He had been serving since January, 1915, and had been in France three years.

During that time he was twice wounded. His mother has received the following message from Capt. S. Bartlett:

“I sincerely hope you will find comfort in the fact that your son stuck to his gun to the last, and died fighting. No praise is too high for your son and his gun team, who on March 28 assisted so largely in holding up the enemy and eventually smashing his attack.

Unfortunately, I am unable to give much information, as the action was a very large one, and it’ was afterwards necessary for us to retire slightly, with the result that your son’s body fell into enemy hands.

Please accept my sincere sympathy in the loss of such a gallant son.”

From C.W.G.C.

Private
SHAW, JOHN WILLIAM
Service Number 73544
Died 28/03/1918
Aged 20
4th Bn.
Machine Gun Corps (Infantry)

Son of John Shaw, of 70, Frederick St., Mexborough, Yorks.

BROWN’S COPSE CEMETERY, ROEUX VI. A. 4.