Basic Details Surname Birss Forenames John Gender Male Information stated on memorial War First World War (1914-1918) Served or died Died Primary Service Our References Service (Primary - Our reference) Merchant Navy Unit (Primary - Our reference) SS Empress of Britain Rank / Title (Primary - Our reference) Apprentice Death and Burial details Year of death 1917 Month of death April Day of death 27 Age at death 18 Manner of death reference Killed in Action