Royal Artillery Band during WW1

[SuziejMartin]

Hello

I am trying to find out more about my Great Uncle Jack Welsh who was born in the Charlton area of London. His full name was John Leslie Russell Welsh/Welch born 1886. In the 1901 cencus, I have found him at the Green Hill Schools repository at Woolwich. I know from a post card that I have that he was in New Zealand with the Royal Artillery Band in 1913/14. I also have a card sent from tenereiffe on his way home on the 14/3/1914. It is believed that the ship he was on was mined at some stage and he wasn't heard from again. I'm afraid that I know very little about the Armed forces, But I'd really like to find out more about his life and where and how he died. I live in Portsmouth and it is difficult for me to go to Kew. If any one can help I would be happy to return the favour with research in Portsmouth.

Also what would a bandsman do during the war?

Thanks

Susie Welsh

[Kate Wills]

Suzie,

Woolwich was the main centre for the Royal Artillery - hence Woolwich arsenal.

Bandsmen were often engaged as stretcher-bearers at the front.