Private John McKenzie

 

The background of this man is not known at present.

John McKenzie enlisted in the 6th (Inniskilling) Dragoons Service Squadron between 15 September and 12 November 1915 (No. UD/297). On 6 October 1915 the squadron had embarked for France, serving as divisional cavalry to the 36th (Ulster) Division. McKenzie trained at the squadron's reserve depot at Enniskillen until 1916 or the first half of 1917, when he was sent to France as a reinforcement.

In June 1916 the Inniskilling squadron had joined with C and F Squadrons of the North Irish Horse to form the 2nd North Irish Horse Regiment, serving as corps cavalry to X Corps. In August-September 1917 the Regiment was disbanded and its men, following training at the 36th (Ulster) Division Infantry Base Depot at Harfleur, were transferred to the Royal Irish Fusiliers, an infantry regiment. Most, including McKenzie, were transferred on 20 September and posted to the 9th (Service) Battalion – renamed the 9th (North Irish Horse) Battalion – joining it in the field at Ruyaulcourt. McKenzie was issued regimental number 41172.

No information has been discovered about his service with the 9th (NIH) Battalion through the latter part of 1917 and the first months of 1918, but he may have seen action with the battalion at the Battle of Cambrai in November and December 1917, and perhaps in other actions in March and April 1918.

In July 1918 he was transferred to the Labour Corps (No.637557).

In 1919 McKenzie re-enlisted, in the Seaforth Highlanders (Ross-shire Buffs, The Duke of Albany’s) (No. 32266 – later Army number 2811007). He deserted on 11 January 1921.

 

This page last updated 22 July 2023.