Johnson, Harold Bainbridge: Lieutenant (Military Cross)

Digitized Service Record

Source: War Diary.

Find-A-Grave

May have written letter regarding KIA of Corporal Skilton, Service no. 409655.

KILLED IN BOMBING RAID

Corp. Lloyd Skilton Was Leading Raid in Lens Advance

“I cannot speak too highly of his gallantry and good work and the high esteem in which he was held by all,” writes Lt. H.B. Johnson to Mrs. G. Skilton of Hastings, England, expressing his sympathy with her in the death of her son, Corp. Lloyd Skilton, was killed August 9 while leading a bombing squad in a raid on the German lines at Lens.

“I had known him but a short time,” says Lt. Johnston, “but even in that short period I counted him one of my personal firends, and he had the confidence and love of all the members of his platoon. His company commander had the very highest opinion of him, and his death was a blow to the whole company. I hope you will temper your sorrow by proud thoughts of a boy who died a hero and a gentleman, fighting for his country.”

Corp. Skilton was born in England 25 years ago, and came to Canada about six years ago, went overseas with a Central Ontario Battalion and had been in the trenches eighteen months when he was struck by a German bomb and killed. While in Toronto he made his home with Mr. Morrin, 105 Bond st. He was a printer with E.D. Apted before enlisting for active service.

Source:  Toronto Evening Telegram – September 29, 1917

Note:  Lt. H.B. Johnson may be Lieutenant Harold Bainbridge Johnson attested to 168th Battalion on June 20th, 1916.

Page 660 – Supplement to the London Gazette , 9 January, 1918

Lt. Harold Bainbridge Johnson, Infy.

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during a raid on the enemy’s trenches. Although held up by wire and machine-gun fire, he succeeded in leading his party into the enemy trench, where he bombed several dug-outs and obtained valuable information. When the signal was given to withdraw, he did so with the greatest coolness and skill, personally carrying the body of a comrade to our lines.

Page 660 - Supplement to the London Gazette , 9 January, 1918
Page 660 – Supplement to the London Gazette , 9 January, 1918. Military Cross Citation.
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