John Thomas PARKER

26 February 1915

Gallantry on the Battlefield – Honour for a Langcliffe Man

The Distinguished Conduct Medal has been awarded to 6141 Sergt. Major J. Parker, 2nd Battalion Manchester Regiment. It was part of his duty to see that ammunition was carried to the trenches, and this he did under a very heavy fire from the enemy. He will be well known to Langcliffe people and to others; he is a brother to Mr. Ralph Parker, of Bridge End, Settle, farmer.

Another who has gained a similar distinction is a native of Giggleswick, Lance Corporal A. J. Brown, 2nd West Yorkshire Regiment. He is a son of Mr. Fred Brown, who recently resided at Giggleswick, but who now lives at Sheffield. Lance Corporal Brown, who was called up at the beginning of the war, was a police constable stationed at Gildersome.

28 April 1916

PARKER – April 16th, at Farnborough, Hampshire, aged 40 years. John (late Regimental Sergt. Major 2nd Manchesters), beloved husband of Norah Parker, and second son of the late James Parker, and of Mrs. Parker, 5, Ribble Terrace, Settle.

28 April 1916

SETTLE – DEATH OF REGIMENTAL SERGEANT MAJOR JOHN PARKER

The death took place on 16th April at Farnborough, Hampshire, of Regimental Sergeant Major John Parker, second son of the late James Parker and Mrs. Parker of Ribble Terrace, Settle, at the age of 40 years. The deceased soldier commenced his military career 22 years ago, joining the Highland Light Infantry. He afterwards transferred to the 2nd Manchesters and saw service with this regiment in India, South Africa and in the present war. He went out with the first expeditionary force and was in the battle of Mons. In February, 1915, he was invalided home, but returned to France two months later. He was again invalided home in August, and was discharged as medically unfit in November. He was offered a commission twice but refused the honour. He gained three medals – Long Service, Good Conduct and the D.C.M., the latter being won in the present war. He was looked up to by both officers and men of his regiment, and the Colonel, in reference to him, said that he was a most reliable, trustworthy, sterling man, and as Regimental Sergeant Major he had always performed his duties in a most creditable manner. Special reference was made to the deceased on Sunday last by the Vicar of Settle, Rev. W. E. Linney.

The funeral took place on 20th instant at Farnborough Cemetery, but owing to the regiment being on active service it was impossible to have a full military funeral. However, the coffin was carried on a gun carriage covered with the Union Jack, was followed by the N.C.O.’s of the Hampshire Regiment, and at the graveside the ‘Last Post’ was sounded. He leaves a widow and one child. Amongst the beautiful wreaths were many from officers and N.C.O.’s of his regiment.