John Edward Longstaff was an English anti-fascist activist and soldier, who served with the International Brigades in Spain and later with the British Army during the Second World War.
11 Facts About Johnny Longstaff
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Johnny Longstaff recalled begging for bread from workers leaving the factories.
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Johnny Longstaff left school and worked in a foundry before being injured by hot metal, finding himself unemployed after recovery.
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Johnny Longstaff found work and was involved in an industrial dispute around the YMCA in Tooting, which led to his involvement in organised labour movement politics.
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Johnny Longstaff played a part in the Battle of Cable Street where he says he first heard the words No Pasaran and learned of the war in Spain.
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Johnny Longstaff enlisted in the 15th International Brigade and left for Spain in September 1937.
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Johnny Longstaff fought in the Battle of Jarama and the July 1938 crossing of the Ebro, attempting to recapture Gandesa.
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Johnny Longstaff returned to the UK soon before the outbreak of the Second World War.
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Johnny Longstaff enlisted, despite being rejected at first because of his experience in Spain, and fought in North Africa and Italy, including the Battle of El Alamein and Monte Cassino.
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Johnny Longstaff became a sergeant and was awarded for gallantry.
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Johnny Longstaff married Pauline in 1940, raised a family and worked as a civil servant after the war.