David Joseph Catling, known as Joseph, was born on 27th April 1875 in Kedington, Suffolk, the son of John and his wife, Alice (née Ruse). In 1911, the family, with Alice as the head, was still living in the village and Joseph worked as a butcher.

Joseph began to work at St Audry’s as a butcher at the start of the war, but was called up to serve in 1916. He was initially posted to the Northumberland Fusiliers and then on, to the Labour Corps. At the end of the war, Joseph was posted to the 246 Prisoner of War Company and, in January 1919, wrote the following letter to Henry Gaffney, the head steward at St Audry’s, asking for his old position back:  

To Mr Gaffney,

Jan 5/19

Sir, I am writing a few lines to let you know I have pulled through fit and well, but I am transferred to a Prisoner of War camp, guarding the prisoners who are clearing the battlefields between Bapaume and Cambrai, a place where some of the most notable fighting took place. I am quite close Hindeburg’s headquarters, which are quite intact, but the surroundings are a mass of ruins everywhere, no one could believe it without seeing it, I have been asked if I have any employment to go back to, as those who have anyone to apply for them will get away first, and as you promised to keep my place open if I return safe, I have referred them to the Medical Superintendent. I am really doing no work, but I am tired of the rough life and conditions of the army out here, officers as well as men the same, so I am anxious to get away as soon as possible, as I consider I have done my bit both in the line and out as no money would keep me a day longer that possible out here, hoping Sir you are well and thanking you for past kindness, shall anxiously be waiting reply.

Your obedient servant

J Catling 387519 246

PoW Coy BEF  

Joseph’s letter was successful and he resumed working at St Audry’s in March of the same year. For his war service, Joseph received the British War and Victory Medals.