James Johnston

Rifleman James Johnston (14418330) served in 2nd Battalion The London Irish Rifles, Royal Ulster Rifles during the Second World War. He was the son of Archibald Johnston and Margaret Johnston of Glarryford, Co. Antrim.

He died on 28th October 1943 aged 23 years old. 38th (Irish) Brigade arrived in Termoli, met with artillery fire on 5th October 1943. Attacking to the north, they were successful in taking positions over the next couple of weeks. On 19th October 1943, 2nd Battalion London Irish Rifles launched an attack on Petacciato Ridge which gave them a position over the Trigno River.

On the night of 27th October 1943, they launched an attack from this base on the hilltop town of San-Salvo. 1st Battalion Royal Irish Fusiliers and 2nd Battalion London Irish Rifles lead the charge. They encountered stiff German resistance and both Battalions suffered losses. After this unsuccessful attack, 2nd Battalion London Irish Rifles withdrew from the front line to rest and recuperate.

James Johnston’s grave is in Collective Grave XIII, D, 1-7 of Moro River Canadian War Cemetery, Italy. His headstone bears the inscription:

With tender love and deepest regret, we who loved you will never forget.

Also killed in the same attack

Alfred Glass

Rifleman | 7019086

Rifleman Alfred Glass died on 28th October 1943 as 2nd Battalion London Irish Rifles launched an attack on a hilltop town over the Trigno River in Italy.

James King

Rifleman | 7020155

Rifleman James King died on 28th October 1943 as 2nd Battalion London Irish Rifles launched an attack on a hilltop town over the Trigno River in Italy.

Herbert Ryan

Rifleman | 7018786

Rifleman Herbert Ryan died on 28th October 1943 as 2nd Battalion London Irish Rifles launched an attack on a hilltop town over the Trigno River in Italy.

Rifleman James Johnston died on 28th October 1943 as 2nd Battalion London Irish Rifles launched an attack on a hilltop town over the Trigno River in Italy.