Pte 3949 John Smith – 9th Bn

[Tim Bell]

John Smith had been a mechanic when enlisted and embodied in 9th Bn on 30/08/1915.  He disembarked in Egypt on 24/05/1916 and was transferred to 19th Bn Rifle Brigade '1261' on 08/11/1916, later '201981'. John was admitted to hosp in Cairo with enteric fever in February 1917 and a heart condition was diagnosed.  He was placed on light duty after discharge from hospital on 05/08/1917. John returned home and was posted to 25th Bn Rifle Brigade on 01/01/1919, where he continued on light duties.
John was discharged unfit from 25th (Reserve) Bn Rifle Brigade on 27/02/1919.  He received a pension for VDH attributable to service. Originating in Egypt 22/02/1917. Mitral and aortic conditions had been attributed to service. The pension for VDH was extended from 03/09/1919.
John Smith died on 08/05/1920, aged 37. WFA cards state Pneumonia & Cardiac Failure or Pneumonia, Valvular Disease & Cardiac Failure.  I expect the DC doesn't mention VDH and this was added on the 2nd card to justify the Widows Pension.  This contradiction wouldn't justify commemoration as the DC would take precedence. HOLD!
The husband of Martha Smith of 46 St Clements Street, Openshaw. John Smith was buried in Gorton Cemetery, plot K.402.

[Tim Bell]

John Smith died from pneumonia and valvular heart disease.  He was at home as reported by his widow.
Formerly and engineer iron erector

[PaulC]

Find-a-Grave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/137809241/john-smith

[Tim Bell]

John Smith was added to CWGC's roll in the UKBOR today.
https://www.cwgc.org/find-records/find-war-dead/casualty-details/75470069/john-smith/

[Tim Bell]

William Leigh's burial has been accepted at Gorton. The common grave has a clear inscription on the headstone. Commemoration is complete. https://www.cwgc.org/find-records/find-war-dead/casualty-details/75470069/john-smith/