He enlisted in the Australian Army in 1940 and was a casualty of war in Papua New Guinea in 1942. His grave is located at the Bomana War Cemetery near Port Moresby and is visited by Knox students who walk the Kokoda Trail. He is remembered on the Old Knox Grammarians' Association War Memorial.
Since 1944, the J M Riley Memorial Cup for 440 Yard Open Athletics Champion has been awarded in his honour. In 1946, the J M Riley Cup for Most Efficient NCO was also named in memorial. Both prizes are still awarded today. His name was honoured in the 1993 Honouring Service.
War Service
1940-1942 - Australian Army NX28316, Major, 36 Australian Infantry Battalion
John pictured in 1930 wearing the Cadet uniform of the time.
