Joseph Wood
Serjeant 43049
1st Btn., Royal Scots Fuseliers
Died on Monday 13th November 1916

Thiepval Memorial
Pier and Face 3 C

Commonwealth War Graves Commission

We regret to announce the death in action of Sergt. Joeseph Wood of the Royal Scots Fuseliers, whose home is at Woodend Cottage, Gavieside. Sergeant Wood worked as a miner previous to the war and was well known and respected in the district. He was in the Territorials and was called for active service at the outbreak of the war. After a period of service on the Coast defence he was transferred to the Royal Scots Fuseliers and proceeded to France where he rendered excellent service.

Midlothian Advertiser Friday December 1st 1916

"It is with great sorrow that I have to tell you of the death in action of your husband, Sergt. Wood. He led the first wave of the Company in the charge across, and did all that a soldier could to encourage his men. He fell in front of the German trench. He was my platoon Sergeant, and assisted me greatly in all the work of the Coy. He was greatly beloved by all his officers and men, who miss him greatly and join with me in expressing our sympathy with you in your sad bereavement."

Letter from the Company Lieutenant to Mrs Wood


The fairest flowers are first to fall,
A husband true and brave.
The dearest, fondest, best of all,
Has found a soldier's grave.

A face I loved it now lies low,
The fond true heart is still.
The hands that often clasped mine
Now lie in death's cold chill.

Sleep on, dear daddy, and take your rest,
We miss you most that loved you best

Inserted by his sorrowing wife and child.
Woodend Cottage, Gavieside, West Calder

Midlothian Advertiser, December 8, 1916