Regiment: R.A.C..
Died: 19 November 1941 aged 24 in Egypt. Killed in action.
Battle: Western Desert Campaign: June 1940 – February 1943. Cemetery: Alamein Memorial Column 24.
Son of Kenneth J. and Ruth Harper, of Ballacolla, Co. Leix, Irish Republic, and Ozleworth Pk., Wotton-under-Edge, Glos.
School Prefect. XI Football. Ledbury Cap. Athletic Colours. L.-Sergt. In O.T.C.
2nd Royal Gloucestershire Hussars
Royal Armoured Corps
His Major writes: "The squadron had to stand up to some 150 enemy tanks and we had to take some heavy punishment. John as usual was right up at the front and giving them everything he had got until he was killed instantaneously by a small-arms bullet. He was far and away my best Troop Leader and his wonderful keenness and complete fearlessness was a grand example and inspiration to all." Those of us who knew John Harper at School would have expected nothing less. (Malvernian, March 1942)