Watson, Thomas 16624 (1885 - 1917)

Private, 3rd Bn. Scots Guards

Buried at Airbles Cemetery

Commemorated at Bellahouston Academy Roll of Honour

Thomas was the son of Mr Watson, of Tynwald, Brownside Road, Cambuslang, Glasgow.

On leaving school he went for a short time to a writer's office but shortly afterwards joined the staff of the National Insurance Company of Great Britain, St. Vincent Street, Glasgow. During his long service he gained experience in various departments. Before the war Tom had been a keen Territorial and had served full time with the 1st Lancashire Rifle Volunteers. His experience gained in this corps should have procured him a commission in one of the local Battalions. A member of the football eleven in the early days of organised football before the present league was formed, Tom will be remembered as one of the finest backs the school has produced.

He joined the 3rd Scots Guards in February 1917. Just before joining his health broke down but he was passed for general service.

The strenuous training undergone by the Guards was too much for him in his weak state of health and he died suddenly in Caterham Hospital of heart strain. He was buried at Airbles Cemetery, Motherwell.