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In memory of:

Private John Bernard Croak

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Military service

Service number: 445312
Age: 26
Rank: Private
Force: Army
Unit/Regiment: Canadian Infantry (Quebec Regiment)
Division: 13th Bn.
Birth: May 18, 1892 Little Bay, Newfoundland & Labrador
Enlistment: August 7, 1915 Sussex, New Brunswick
Death: August 8, 1918

Burial/memorial information

Grave reference: Plot I, Row A, Grave 9
Additional information

Son of James and Cecelia Croak, of New Aberdeen, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

Additional citations

<p>An extract from The London Gazette," No. 30922, dated September 24, 1918, records the following:<br />For most conspicuous bravery in attack when having become separated from his section he encountered a machine gun nest, which he bombed and silenced, taking the gun and crew prisoners. Shortly afterwards he was severely wounded, but refused to desist. Having rejoined his platoon, a very strong point, containing several machine guns, was encountered. Private Croak, however, seeing an opportunity, dashed forward alone and was almost immediately followed by the remainder of the platoon in a brilliant charge. He was the first to arrive at the trench line, into which he led his men, capturing three machine guns and bayonetting or capturing the entire garrison. The perseverance and valour of this gallant soldier,who was again severely wounded, and died of his wounds, were an inspiring example to all.</p>

HANGARD WOOD BRITISH CEMETERY Somme, France

Hangard is a village in the Department of the Somme, in the valley of the Luce, between Domart and Demuin. The road to Villers-Bretonneux goes due North from the village, up a steep hillside. After a mile it passes between the two portions of Hangard Wood, and HANGARD WOOD BRITISH CEMETERY will be found at this point, on the side of the road.

For more information, visit Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

 

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