Canada, Commonwealth. A Second War Memorial Cross to Captain Gannon

A Memorial Cross, in silver, reverse engraved LIEUT. J.P. GANNON, reverse marked BIRKS and STERLING on the 6 o’clock arm, worn on a purple ribbon, light wear and loss of silvering to the reverse, remains very fine. 

Footnote: Joseph Patrick Gannon was born in Philipston, Ontario in 1889. He was residing in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and working as a merchant, when he enlisted for the First War in March 1915.

In April 1916, he was commissioned as an officer. In May 1917, he advanced to lieutenant after serving 1 year with the 68th overseas battalion, and 1 year as captain of the 210th overseas battalion. 

A newspaper clip states “Former captain and adjutant of the 210th Battalion, at Moose Jaw, Capt. Gannon helped to organize the present detachment of the 49th Battalion at Stony Plain. First Great War veterans acted as pall bearers at the funeral service.” 

He died in 1943, at the University of Alberta Hospital from Nephro-sclerosis (due to service). He is buried at Rosedale Cemetery at Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.