218474 Sgt. John Michael Moran British Army 13th Btn. Kings Royal Rifle Corps from:56 North Kent Street, Collyhurst, Manchester My Great Grandfather John Michael Moran was an unsung hero to his sons John and William, and daughters Lilly and Sadie.
Whilst on a fact-finding holiday to Ypres and the Somme my research into the Manchester Library online Roll of Honour revealed a man who first served his country in 1900 in the second Boer War as a KRRC Rifleman and then in WWI an instrumental part of Kitchener's new army as Lance Corporal then Sergeant. He served with 13th Battalion in the 111th Brigade, 37th Infantry Division.
A quiet well groomed white haired man, he never spoke of his brave deeds despite twice returning to serve his country. Not even a Marker at the family grave as he had survived both wars. A new monument remembering this survivor of the so called "Great War" was erected in June 2014 by my Father Anthony Moran and myself to remember his bravery.
Decorated with British Victory and Star Medals from 1915-18 he finally left the Theatre of war of France through illness receiving a silver medal in 1918.
Only one photo of him survives thanks to my Dad who retrieved the biscuit tin of photos from the bin following my Grandfather's death in 1991.
We are still researching the battalion's movements but are proud to find the truth and honour his courage to return to a terrifying inferno. We honour his memory.
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