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knox grammar school

Biographies

Dr John Lindsay (Jack) Taylor MC (OKG30)

Knox’s #2 Student 1924

John (pictured front row, far left), also known as Jack, was the second enrolled student at Knox. He attended the School from 1924 to 1930.

John was a member of the School’s first 1st XV in 1924 and later played in the 2nd XV. In 1930, he joined the 1st XI. John was a Corporal in the Kirby Shield winning Drill Team in 1930. He also participated in the Dramatic Club and House competitions. Placing 4th in his Form in his first year, John’s academic success continued with top ten placing in each year from 1927-1930.

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After school, John studied Medicine at the University of Sydney and worked at Sydney Hospital. He married Barbara and had two children. John enlisted in the Australian Army as a medical officer in 1940 and rose to the rank of Captain. In 1943, he was one of ten Medical Officers sent to support 3,600 Australian POWs who formed part of F Force on the Burma Railway. He was awarded the Military Cross for gallant and distinguished services in the South West Pacific.

After the war, John returned to Sydney Hospital and gained his Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) at London University. He joined an obstetrics practice in Perth and was elected to gynaecological posts at Fremantle Hospital and King Edward Maternity Hospital.

His brother Robert (OKG36) also attended the school, as did his nephew Andrew Bluett (OKG69) (dec'd).

War Service

1940-1945

Australian Army NX70453
Captain
2/30 Battalion

1943 Military Cross

For gallant and distinguished services in South West Pacific.

“Captain J L Taylor, NX 70453, Army, Medical Officer, to the 2/30 Battalion was honoured for the courageous manner in which he moved around the battlefield under all conditions of fire, day and night, and the coolness with which he performed his duties, excited the admiration of all ranks. By his courage and devotion to duty, he inspired all ranks with confidence, and his complete disregard for his personal safety.” Research by Lt. Col. Peter Winstanley OAM RFD (Retired).

1930 1st XI

World War Two Service