William I. Punch
Epithet: Soldier in the Black Watch
Record type: First World War Biographies
Town / Village residence: Castletown
Biography: William Punch was the son of Robert and Sarah Punch, of Malew Street, Castletown. He joined the army shortly after the outbreak of war in 1914, enlisting in the 1st battalion the Black Watch (Royal Highlanders). He was killed in action aged 18 on 29 September 1915, during the Battle of Loos. He is buried in Dud Corner Cemetery, Loos. (Image ref: PG/13743/7).
Gender: Male
I am a relative of William and have researched him over the years. I have his Black Watch cap and original postcard with a poem he wrote, the original letter my great grandmother received from his commanding officer informing her of her son's death, a further letter informing her of the relocation of his grave, a copy of his headstone in Dud Corner cemetery and his death certificate, which my grandmother passed to me shortly before she died. If copies of these would be of interest to MNH I would be happy to provide them. Best, - Graham Clague Report this
Hi Graham Thanks for getting in touch about the resources you hold about William - they sound interesting. Please would you email to library@mnh.im so we have your contact details and can discuss this? Mention me as a contact and I'll be in touch. Many thanks, Wendy (the archivist at the Manx Museum) - Wendy Thirkettle Report this