CADMAN, John

John Cadman was born in Dudley and his parents were John, a coal miner, and Florence of Price Street, later 8 St. Johns Street, Kates Hill, Dudley. He volunteered as a regular soldier for the Worcesters in 1914 and served in the 1st Battalion. They had been sent to the Western Front in November 1914 and took part in the battle of Neuve Chapelle starting on the 9th March 1915, which was the first attack launched by the Commander-in-Chief, Sir John French . It developed into a fierce three day battle with the renowned Bavarian Division and both sides suffered high casualties. John Cadman was among the much needed reinforcements and a second attack was ordered for the Aubers ridge but the extensive enemy defences in this low-lying area prevented any real chance of success. Among those killed in action on the 9th May was Private John Cadman. He was 18 years of age and is commemorated on the Ploegsteert , Dudley and St. John's church, Kates Hill, Memorials.