John was born in Warboys, Huntingdonshire, he town where he also enlisted in the Hunts. Cyclist Battalion.  He joined  the 1/1st battalion and is first recorded there on the 13/8/1915.  He was allocated the number 190 and sent to E Company [later C Company].   Killed in action 22/8/1916 - possibly as a result of a raid on Hindenburg Trench in Nab Valley.    He was 28 years old when he died and left a widow Ada [Nee Summers] and two small children.

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From a local newspaper dated – 9/9/1916.

Pte J. W. Bateman, of Warboys, husband of Mrs. Bateman, who is now residing with her parents, Mr and Mrs Spencer, 'Three Tunns', St. Ives. News of Pte Bateman’s death was reported by a Lt. Col. Of the Royal Warwickshire Regt, as follows:- I am sorry to have to inform you that your husband Pte. J. W. Bateman, Cyclist Battalion, attached Royal Warwickshire Regiment, was killed in action on August 23rd, whilst holding some trenches which had recently been captured from the Germans. His conduct, like that of his comrades was most gallant. I can assure you that my officers, my men and myself feel the deepest sympathy for your great affliction. Pte Bateman was a native of Warboys. He was only 27 years of age, and leaves a widow and two little children.