John Shiwak facts for kids

John Shiwak (1889 – November 21, 1917) was a brave Inuk soldier from Newfoundland and Labrador. He became a skilled sniper during the First World War. John was part of the famous Newfoundland Regiment. Many people considered him one of the best snipers in the entire British army during the war.

Early Life in Labrador

John Shiwak grew up in a small community called Cul-de-Sac. This place was near his birthplace of Rigolet. Rigolet is located at the entrance to Lake Melville in Labrador. His family name was originally Sikoak. This Inuit word means newly formed ice. A person from the Grenfell Mission later changed it to Shiwak.

John was a skilled hunter from a young age. He hunted in the vast interior of Labrador. He also hunted near the Labrador Sea close to his home. This experience taught him how to use a rifle very well.

Joining the War Effort

Before the war, John Shiwak joined a group called the Legion of Frontiersmen. This was a special organization formed in Great Britain in 1905. It started operations in Newfoundland in 1911. In 1915, John left Rigolet. He traveled to St. John's and joined the Newfoundland Regiment on July 24.

During his time in the war, his leaders quickly noticed his amazing shooting skills. On April 16, 1917, he was promoted. He became a Lance Corporal, which is a junior leader in the army.

A Hero's End

John Shiwak was a very important soldier. He was known for being an excellent scout and observer. He was also a kind and reliable person. On November 21, 1917, John and six other soldiers were in Masnières, France. They were hit by an enemy shell and sadly died.

Captain R.H. Tait wrote a letter about John's death. He said that John was buried that same afternoon. His loss was deeply felt by everyone in the Regiment. Captain Tait wrote, "Shiwak will long be remembered by all who knew him."

Remembering John Shiwak

John Shiwak is still remembered today for his bravery and skill. In 2014, a new building was named in his honor. It is called Shiwak Hall. This building is a residential wing at Memorial University of Newfoundland. It helps keep his memory alive for future generations.

See also

• List of people of Newfoundland and Labrador
• List of communities in Newfoundland and Labrador