John was later killed in action in 1915 .
In real life , Rudyard Kipling was so anxious for his son , John Kipling , to serve in the BEF that the father 's friendship with Roberts helped procure a commission for his son .
John Kipling was later killed in action in 1915 .
In real life , Rudyard Kipling was so anxious for his son , John Kipling , to serve in the BEF that the father 's friendship with Roberts helped procure a commission for his son .