1/5th Battalion, East Lancashire Regiment.

Awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in the London Gazette of 3 October 1918.

Jolly was a native of Burnley, Lancashire.

The Burnley Express of 3 August 1918 reported, BRIERFIELD D.C.M. Corporal John Jolly (24), East Lancashire Regiment, only son of Mrs. Jolly, 57, Colne Road, Brierfield, has won the Distinguished Conduct Medal. The decoration has been awarded because of his work in going over the top and bringing in German prisoners in broad daylight. The corporal enlisted on 6 August, 1914. He served in the Dardanelles, and was invalided with dysentery. One of four friends who joined together, Corporal Jolly is the only one now remaining, the other three having laid down their lives at the Dardanelles. Landed in Gallipoli on the 10th May 1915. Also served in the Royal Army Medical Corps # 207844.

The citation for his Distinguished Conduct Medal published in the London Gazette reads,"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During a successful raid on the enemy's trenches the section of which this N.C.O., was in command was reduced to two men, but collecting several men who had lost their units, he led them with great determination against the enemy's position. His resolution and gallantry was of great value during the operation."