Jack Martin's signatureJack Martin was reported missing, presumed dead, on April 24, 1915 after the Second Battle of Ypres. This battle was the first in which chlorine gas was used as a weapon by the Germans. It was the first major engagement of the war for the 7th Battalion and nearly two-thirds of the men who fought in it lost their lives. In all, more than 2,000 Canadians were killed in this battle, with another 4,500 wounded or captured.

Jack’s service file shows that he was originally reported missing, then it was thought that he had been taken prisoner by the Germans. It was not until 1917 that he was assumed to be dead.

Gas attack at the Second Battle of Ypres

Gas attack at the Second Battle of Ypres (image from battleofypres.blogspot.com)

Jack’s body was not recovered. His name appears on the Menin Gate memorial.