Kennedy, John (1888 - 1917)

Second Lieutenant, 7th Bn. Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)

At the time of his death, Kennedy was attached to the 7th Battalion Border Regiment.

Buried at Arras Memorial

Commemorated at Govan High School Roll of Honour 1914-1919

John Kennedy was the only member of Govan High School's teaching staff to be killed in the First World War.

John Kennedy's Obituary in the Govan Press, 11th May 1918

"Govan Teacher killed:Second Lieutenant John Kennedy

To the steadily growing list of local men who have given their lives for their country has to be added the name of Second Lieutenant John Kennedy MA formerly a teacher in Govan High School. Mr Kennedy obtained his commission in the Scottish Rifles four months ago but at the time of his death was attached to the Border Regiment. He had been about three months in France. His loss will be keenly felt by his colleagues and former pupils for he was a skilful and enthusiastic teacher and never tired of his efforts to develop his scholars along the lines of their own varied personalities.

Of the twelve members of Govan High School staff on active service, four have been wounded, but Mr Kennedy is the first to make the supreme sacrifice. He hated war but was it as the cure for German glorification of militarism, so he went forth to do his best. Mr Kennedy was 29 years of age. The sympathies of all concerned will go to his mother and young widow."


(Credit: Govan Press. Courtesy of Govan High School)