SECOND LIEUTENANT WILLIAM TORDIFF JOHNSTON
MANCHESTER REGIMENT
13TH APRIL 1917 AGE 20
BURIED: TILLOY BRITISH CEMETERY, TILLOY-LES-MOFFLAINES, FRANCE
William Johnston's inscription sounds like a quote from a letter of condolence. The writer's opinion is supported by other letters that his mother received, all quoted in Johnston's obituary in 'The Roll of Honour: a Biographical Record of all Members of His Majesty's Naval and Military Forces who have Fallen in the War'. From his Colonel: "Your son was a most excellent officer, and had the respect and affection of his men and fellow officers." He was "quite as cheerful in the trench as out of it and a great help in trying moments to his brother officers". From the Chaplain: "He was always so cheery and bright that it did anyone good to be with him." And from a brother officer: "Johnny was the most lovable and fascinating person I ever knew, and a great favourite with all, officers and men".