More about William Watson

For reasons unknown this man is not listed on the original Dundee Roll of Honour.

William Watson   341323   Royal Air Force

BROUGHTY YOUTH’S TRAGIC END.

ACCIDENTALLY SHOT DEAD IN TRAIN.

A Promising Career Cut Short.

The sad news of the death of a youthful Broughty Ferry hero has just been received by his parents, who reside in Tayview Buildings, Church Street.  Mr William Watson, pilot, is the recipient of a telegram from an officer stating that his son, William Watson, of the Royal Air Force, had been accidentally shot while travelling in a train between Ismailia and Alexandria, Egypt.  Particulars are to follow later.

Young through he was, he was determined to serve his country during the war, and while not yet fifteen years old he was engaged carrying coals to the fleet at Scapa Flow.

Army Career.

He subsequently served for a time under the Graves Commission in France, later joined the Black Watch, and then enlisted in the Royal Air Force, in which he was doing well, and expecting promotion.  This information was in a letter his parents received on Wednesday last.

Dundee Courier 5th March 1921

BROUGHTY HERO’S DEATH IN EGYPT.

COMMANDING OFFICER’S TRIBUTE.

Mr William Watson pilot, Tayview Buildings, Broughty Ferry, who a few weeks ago was briefly notified of his son William’s death in Egypt, has now received detailed information.

The deceased, as previously stated, was in the Air Force and had a good record in the Great War.  He had distinguished himself in pre-war days by an act of bravery in rescuing a boy from drowning at Broughty Ferry, which was recognised by the gift of a watch and £5 from the Carnegie Hero Fund Committee.

According to the details given by Watson’s commanding officer, Watson when he met his death, was escorting a truck with stores to Alexandria and had reached Abukir.  While deceased was inside the truck a shot was heard, and on investigation being made he was found shot, with his rifle beside him.

He was removed to hospital and was able before he died shortly afterwards to tell the doctor that he was endeavouring to rectify some fault connected with the breech of the rifle when it went off.  A subsequent examination of the rifle confirmed Watson’s statement that the rifle was faulty.

The commanding officer states that Watson was one of the most promising lads he had ever had under his charge, noted for his good work and conscientious discharge of duty, and an example to all for his cheerfulness.  His death was regretted by all his comrades.  He was buried at Alexandria on 1st March with full military honours.

Dundee Courier 2nd April 1921