Lest we forget – Frank Cannon, a Port Vale player sadly killed during WW1
134 years after his birthday on the 8th November 1888, we pay tribute to the life of Frank Cannon, a Port Vale player who passed away in the trenches during World War One.
Photo credits: Sparticus Educational, Independent Rs, Imperial War Museum
Cannon’s football career
Born in Ware, Cannon began his footballing career aged just fifteen at Hitchin Town. His talents soon drew attention and after being described as a “dashing player and good dribbler with a fine shot” he was signed by then Southern League outfit Queens Park Rangers in 1907. The 20 year-old hit the headlines for a goal in the first-ever Charity Shield game – a draw with Manchester United in 1908.
Cannon’s career continued on an upwards trajectory and in 1909 he signed for West Ham United. However, he struggled to break through to the first-team, making just four appearances.
The lack of first-team opportunities saw him move on to New Brompton and then Port Vale in 1911, in what was to prove the final transfer of his career. He was top-scorer with eighteen goals for the Valiants during the 1911-12 season and hit another six in 1912-13 before leaving the club at the end of that season.
Frank Cannon’s football stats
Clubs: Hitchin Town, QPR, West Ham, New Brompton, Port Vale
Appearances: 126
Goals: 41
Cannon’s spell in service
After departing the Valiants, Cannon signed up to fight in World War One, joining the Bedfordshire Regiment and then the 13th Essex Regiment. He clearly did well during the war effort rising to the rank of Sergeant Major.
Sadly, Cannon was killed during the battle of Ypres on the 15th February 1916. A note from one of Cannon’s fellow soldiers said: “The 13th Essex had been in the trenches for sixteen days and were just about to be relieved. He was just ready to leave the trench when several shrapnel shells burst over him, wounding him and several others. Although his wound was rather serious – he was wounded in the back – it was quite thought he would get to England and recover, but I am sorry to say he died on his way to the dressing station about an hour after he was hit.”
Cannon was 27 years of age and left behind a wife and three children. He is buried, along with more than 500 other soldiers at the Potijze Burial Ground Cemetery in Ypres.
Alongside Cannon, Port Vale players Tommy Regan, Leigh Roose, John Shenton, Robert Suart, Jack Yuill also lost their lives during the Great War.
Frank Cannon – 1888 to 1916 – RIP forever Valiant