Notes

Yahba enlisted with the 135th Battalion, and transferred to the 160th Battalion a month later. After training with the 160th, he travelled to France at the end of March 1918. In May 1918, he joined the 18th Battalion. Private Yahba was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his heroism during the last month of the First World War. The citation for his award, published in The London Gazette, noted: “During the operation at Iwuy, on 10th/11th October, 1918, he took command of the section when his section commander was killed, and led them forward. Throughout he showed great gallantry and initiative and rendered valuable service.” On October 11, the 2nd Canadian Division, of which the 18th Battalion was a part, moved forward three kilometers facing strong German opposition. By the end of the day, the Division established itself on the forward slope of a hill, known as the Iwuy spur.

Sources & Links

- James, F. Treve and Thomas Johnston, eds. “Bruce in Khaki containing a History of the 160th Overseas Bruce Battalion and Complete Nominal Roll of all Men who were at any Time on the Strength of the Battalion.” Chesley: F. Treve James and Thomas Johnsto
- The Canadian Encyclopedia, https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/john-henry-yahba
- The London Gazette, 9 March 1920, page 3128
- Streeter, Bill. "Paying homage to a World War I decorated hero - John Henry Yahba" https://saugeentimes.com/paying-homage-to-a-world-war-i-decorated-hero-john-henry-yahba/
- Library & Archives Canada