Rutherford, John Telfer

John Rutherford was born on June 17, 1887 in Roxburghshire, Scotland to parents George and Catherine Rutherford. He grew up in Scotland with his brothers George Jr. and William, and sister, Jane. As a young man, John immigrated to Canada and made his home in the Lethbridge area. He found employment in Southern Alberta, herding sheep for local ranchers. On February 24, 1916, John Rutherford enlisted with the 113th Battalion CEF Lethbridge Highlanders. Pte Rutherford arrived in England on October 6, 1916, and remained in England until embarking for France on November 27, 1916. Upon arrival in France, Pte Rutherford was taken on strength by the 16th Canadian Scottish. During the first six months of 1917, he suffered from the mumps and measles and also received shrapnel wounds and gunshot wounds to both legs. Pte Rutherford would make a full recovery and continue to serve with the 16th Battalion in France and Flanders. On October 1, 1918, Pte Rutherford was killed in action. He was laid to rest at Sancourt British Cemetery. John Rutherford was awarded the British War Medal and Victory Medal. His mother, Catherine received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her son