Pte. Joseph Kelly
British Army Black Watch
from:Blackhill, Co Durham
I know very little about my great uncle, Joseph Kelly, although I do remember him being a funny old man who always seemed a bit of a character. I used to listen to some of the funny war stories he would tell me. This was probably a factor in me joining the British Army. I remember telling him I was joining the army and he seemed very happy for me. He sadly died before he got the chance to see me in uniform. Although I joined the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and had a successful 11 years in this regiment I always had a fondness for the Black Watch and was lucky to serve alongside them in Northern Ireland.
I do know that my great uncle was taken POW during the war, 24-26th March 1943, I still have the document that was sent back to his parents informing them that he was missing, albeit in not very good condition, along with his war medal. I cherish this family bit of history and look back at his efforts in the war with pride. I am not sure which Battalion he served with I seem to think it may of been the 5th but can't be sure. Would love to find any more information on his service.
