It’s official: Gallipoli soldier’s recovery a miracle
The Archbishop of Liverpool has formally recognised the 1923 recovery of Liverpool man John “Jack” Traynor as a miracle.
Traynor, who suffered from epilepsy, paralysis and paraplegia following severe injuries sustained during the Gallipoli Campaign, is said to have been cured during a pilgrimage to Lourdes, France. His condition had deteriorated after hospitalisation in Egypt and England, leaving him wheelchair-bound. Determined to seek healing, Traynor joined Liverpool’s first official pilgrimage to Lourdes in July 1923. After five days at the shrine, he reportedly returned home completely cured, living a full life until his death in 1943 from unrelated causes.
This declaration marks the 71st official miracle recognised at Lourdes and the first involving a British Catholic. The decision followed extensive research that uncovered historical medical reports supporting the miraculous nature of Traynor’s recovery. A canonical commission convened by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon reviewed this evidence alongside testimonies from medical experts, concluding there was sufficient basis to affirm the cure as beyond natural explanation.
Lourdes, known for its reputed healing waters and religious significance, has attracted millions of pilgrims since the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared there in 1858.
John Traynor (1883–1943) joined the Royal Naval Reserve in 1911. Following the outbreak of war in August 1914, Traynor was transferred to the Anson Battalion of the Royal Naval Division (RND), serving in the defence of Antwerp (4–10 October 1914).
According to a contemporary source, Traynor was attached to the Royal Dublin Fusiliers when they made their brave and tragic landing at V Beach, Helles, Gallipoli, on 25 April 1915.
Traynor’s pension record, which gives his disability as 100%, records a gunshot wound in the right chest. Traynor is said to have been wounded on 8 May 1915, presumably during the Second Battle of Krithia, with either the ‘Dubsters’ or the RND.
WFA members have access to pension records. View Traynor's pension card.
