John Heald 2KOYLI

Saturday, 16 May 2026, Swarcliffe, Leeds. Today, we had the honour and privilege of meeting and conversing with Pte John Heald 2KOYLI, who is 100 years young. At the age of 20, John fought with 2KOYLI during the assault on Malaya in August 1945, and underwent training in the Mysore jungles for this purpose.

John came to the attention of the Association Secretary through Royal British Legion member Jeff Gantschuk, who attended John's 100th birthday in December 2025. Jeff was shown a handwritten register of men who served in the ranks of 2KOYLI, which John had compiled during the conflict. Jeff informed the Association Secretary that John wished to donate the manuscript to the KOYLI Museum in Doncaster.

A surprise visit to meet John was arranged with his daughter, Linda. Standard Bearers Adrian Waites and Colin Cranswick, carrying the Leeds and Pontefract KOYLI Standards, along with Phil Solomon, 1KOYLI, travelled to the sheltered housing facility where John resides. They were joined by John's daughter Linda, other family members, and Jeff Gantschuk. Everyone agreed it was heartwarming to see John and Phil Solomon share memories and photographs.

John, whom we consider to be the oldest surviving KOYLI serviceman, spoke with pride about his service with 2KOYLI. He then handed his handwritten register to Colin Cranswick for delivery to the KOYLI Museum in Doncaster.

Regimental Welcoming Party for John Heald KOYLI

Jeff Gantschuk (RBL), Adrian Waites, Phil Solomon, Colin Cranswick, John Heald (seated)

Pte John Heald 2 KOYLI

Pte John Heald 2nd Battalion KOYLI

Mr John Heald and Phil Solomon

Mr John Heald and Phil Solomon

Rear: Jeff Gantschuk, Adrian Waites, Linda Hurst (John's Daughter) Front: John Healy, Phil Solomon

Colin Cranswick, John Heald, Phil Solomon