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| Pte John Clarke Hamer |
South Wales Borderers,
Killed in Action,
1st September 1918,
Age 20,
Commemorated Vis En Artois Memorial.
Newspaper Report:
An army chaplain in France writing under the date September 6, conveys to mr. J.J. Hamer and Mrs. Hamer, Ratcliffe Street, Haslingden, the information that their youngest son, Private John C. Hamer, South Wales Borderers, has been killed in action and has been buried alongside some of his pals. The news leaves a sorrowful feeling over a very wide circle, for "Jack" Hamer had for one so young - he was just twenty - an unusually large number of friends and admirers. He was a typical English boy, and yet something more, for he carried an old head on his young shoulders. He was generous hearted to a degree, always maintained a spirit that brimmed over in cheerfulness and enthusiasm. He looked for the bright side of things. He was a member of the committee of the Haslingden Social Club, where, as indeed everywhere, he was highly popular. When he was approaching his 18th birthday he was eager to be in the army, although two of his brothers were serving - Gunner Edgar Hamer, R.F.A., and Corporal Tom Hamer, of the Tanks, the latter of whom has since been discharged after losing his right arm. Jack joined up when he was 18 years and six months. His last leave was in September when it was noted that his period of training had by no means lessened his enthusiasm to serve. Prior to joining up he was with his father in the cabinet making and furnishing business. He spent a good part of his time in the shop and showrooms in Blackburn Road.
In business as in social life he never spared himself in helping others. His name is on the Parish Church roll of honour.
