Johnny, who was born in 1898, joined the 19th Hussars (which his father had commanded) in 1916 and was thus in time to see action in France in the First War.
When the 19th Hussars were disbanded at Muttra in 1920, Johnny transferred to the 4th Queen’s Own Hussars who took over from them, as did a large number of officers and other ranks from that regiment.
In 1927 Johnny married Freddie, sister of David Bibby who commanded ‘A’ Squadron of which Johnny was second-in-command. She survives him, together with a son and a daughter.
In 1938 he rode the winner of the Bibby Cup, the Regimental Race held at the Aldershot Bona Fide Race Meeting. The Challenge Cup was presented by his father in law who commanded the regiment from 1887 to 1891. He was riding Loopy Kennard’s ‘Notice Board’ and the race created something of a sensation as, among the runners, Loopy had two other more fancied horses, one of which he rode himself.
In 1940 he left the regiment to command the North Irish Horse and later also commanded the 2nd Recce Regiment.
He retired in 1948.
Johnny was a most regular attendant at the Cavalry Memorial Parade and at Regimental Reunions. We say goodbye to a dedicated Regimental officer.
