Thiepval Memorial
D.L.I. Memorial Book
Pauline Priano has submitted the following:-
John Hopper was born in Spennymoor and resided in Windlestone. He enlisted in Ferryhill as Private 345, 22nd Battalion (Pioneers) Durham Light Infantry in 1915. The 22nd Battalion trained at Catterick proceeding to France, landing at Le Harve June 17th 1916, joining the 19th Division. July 2nd 1916 they were transferred to the 8th Division and participated in the Battles of Albert, July 1st-13th 1916. In the run up to his death in October the Battalion was resting, with the exception of 116 men from “A” Coy who were involved in repairing, until new divisional orders were received. Orders received October 7th regarded their relief by the 21st Division between the 10th-12th. “A” Coy left at 2 p.m. on the 10th for Mazingarbe and the remaining company at 30 minute intervals. It was during this march that Private John Hopper was killed in action. He has no known grave and his sacrifice is recorded on the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing of the Somme, Thiepval, France, pier and face 14A and 15C. He was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.
In God’s safe keeping. Rest In Peace
