CSM Thomas Thompson Watson, first contingent, rose in the ranks of the 1st Battalion to become Physical and Bayonet Instructor on Special Duty in Canada before the end of the Great War.
Thomas Thompson Watson born in Penicuik, Scotland. Mother Mrs W Watson of 73 Laurie Terrace, Flemington, Motherwell, England. A steel worker.
Do you have a photo of my grandfather?
Most common question asked of CEFRG. Unfortunately, Other Ranks seldom identified in photos. But, this certain – Private Thomas Thompson Watson present when this panorama of the 1st Battalion taken at Valcartier Camp.
Private Thomas Thompson Watson 6514 medical exam on 21 August 1914, and enlisted 22nd September at Valcartier with the 5th Battalion. Eighteen years and six months of age, standing 5′ 9″ tall, 147 pounds, with fair complexion, blue eyes and light brown hair. Previous experience with 22nd Regiment Oxford Rifles. Single, but later married in 1917 to a Mrs T T Watson of 43 Ladysmith St, Wishaw, Scotland.
Pte Watson on 1st Battalion paylist as of 31 October 1914.
1st Battalion (Ontario Regiment)
Organized at Valcartier Camp September 1914 composed of recruits from MD 1 (Western Ontario), initially commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel F W Hill. Other Officers Commanding: F. A. Creighton (24/1/16) G.C. Hodson (27/6/16). Embarked from Quebec 25 September 1914 aboard LAURENTIC, and later disembarked in England 14 October 1914 with a strength of 45 officers, 1121 other ranks. Arrived in France 11 February 1915 with the 1st Division, 1st Canadian Infantry Brigade, and later reinforced by 4th Canadian Reserve Battalion.
Private Thomas Thompson Watson entered the Western Front on 7 February 1915 with the 1st Battalion, and Canadian Army Gymnastic Staff from 7 February 1915 to 13 September 1916.
Second Battle of Ypres
Pte Watson wounded 28 April 1915. GSW chest, hand. The 1st Battalion constructing trenches on farms in 28.C.22.a and 28.C.22.b, and also assisting the Rifle Brigade later in the day. The area incredibly historic. The location just south of Kitcheners Wood.
To Canadian Base Depot, Rouen on 3 May 1915.
On 26 April 1916, the Germans tried to occupy Sap Trench 46, but driven back. Captain Blatchford (attached) killed and Lt Bailey wounded. For actions in the engagement, Pte Watson appointed Lance/Corporal in the Field, 30 April 1916.
Battle of Mont Sorrel
Lance/Corporal Thomas Thompson Watson appointed Corporal in the Field, 18 June 1916. On this day, General Lipsett addressed the Battalion, thanking them for their courage during the Battle of Mont Sorrel.
Corporal Thomas Thompson Watson appointed Sergeant in the Field, 2 July 1916.
On 13 September 1916, 7 days leave to England. An illness, and his skills prevent his return to the front.
Return to UK
Sergeant Thomas Thompson Watson admitted to Scott General Hospital, Glasgow, sick, 19 September 1916. To Canadian Convalescent Hospital, Uxbridge, on 17 October 1916 with Scabies, and later discharged on 27th October.
To be A/CSM 19 April 1917, St Leonora.
A/CSM Thomas Thompson Watson marriage approved, 15 September 1917.
A/CSM Watson attended eight week course of Drill Instruction, Bexhill-on-Sea from 28 December 1917 to 25 February 1918.
![Groups taken at O.T.C. Canadians, Bexhill-on-Sea. [No. 4 Co.] CSM Thomas Thompson Watson](https://i0.wp.com/cefrg.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/3397669.jpg?resize=1024%2C830&ssl=1)
Anti-Gas School course at Bramshott on 22 April 1918. CSM Thomas Thompson Watson also very likely in the image below.
Return to Canada
CSM Thomas Thompson Watson ceases to be attached to Depot Company on return to Canada for Special Duty as a Physical and Bayonet Instructor, 5 October 1918.
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