John B Norman

Killed in Action on the 18/10/1914 at the Battle of La Bassee

John and the Battalion arrived at Le Havre on the 14/08/1914 and were part of the 9th Brigade, 3rd Division. John was reported as missing after the fighting at the Battle of La Bassee, 10th October - 2th November 1914. His death was not confirmed until January 1916. The Battles of La Bassee, Armentieres and Messines, 1914 : The whole British Expeditionary Force is moved to Flanders from the Aisne, as part of an effort to outflank the Germans in France. On arrival it encounters German forces moving to outflank the Allies. These battles form part of a phase often, but incorrectly, referred to as the "Race to the Sea". The battle extends northwards as further forces arrive, with the First Battle of Ypres and the Battle of the Yser taking place at the same time. John is listed as 3rd BATTALION on the Coatbridge Memorial. John is also remembered on the Coats Parish Church Roll of Honour (see photos). See photos for John's Medal Index Card, his Service Medal and Award Rolls x 2, his listing in the De Ruvigny's Roll of Honour, his CWGC Grave Registration, his name on the Le Touret Memorial Panel List, his name on the Le Touret Memorial, his Pension Records x 2 and the Royal Scots Fusiliers Cap Badge.