Jon’s interest in the First World War started with conversations with his grandfather, who had lost two brothers in the war. One was killed on 25 April 1915 on the first day of the Gallipoli landings and buried at V Beach. The other was on 21 March 1918 the first day of the German Spring Offensive (the "Kaiserschlacht”) with no known grave but commemorated on the Pozieres Memorial near Albert. The second brother was also present at the Battle of Jutland.
Although based in the UK Jon was born and raised in South Africa and thus has an interest in aspects of Southern African history.
He has published a book on the Union of South Africa in 1910.
Jon is a retired Chartered Accountant and is treasurer of a few charities including the local hospice.