Real memorial obituaries – Combe Down, Monkton Combe, Midford

In memoriam et celebrationem

In memorial and celebration

COLOUR-SERGEANT DEAD

Drilled Bath Citizen Soldiers in Last War

A veteran of the Somerset Light Infantry, widely-known locally, died on Tuesday, at the age of 83, in the person of Colour-Sergt. John Wiltshire.

Mr. Wiltshire, whose death occurred at 4, Rock Hall Cottages, Combe Down, Bath, was with the Regular Somerset Light Infantry Burma, in his early days, and 40 years or so ago came to Bath as an instructor to the local battalion of Volunteers, afterwards Territorials, with whom he served for a long period making many friends in Bath and the surrounding villages.

When the Great War. broke out he took an active interest in the formation of the "D.0.G.5," afterwards recognised as the Volunteer Batt. Somerset L.L, acting first all as instructor, then R.S.M.. and ultimately obtaining a commission in the unit.

Combe Down Licensee.

He was for a considerable time connected with the old Bath Brewery offices in Argyle Street as a local traveller, until the undertaking was taken over by Georges Brewery, when he became licensee of the King William IV.. Combe Down.

A son of his is also well-known as Bugle-Major Wiltshire.

He retired eight years ago. and resided at 23. Victoria Buildings, Twerton.

He still kept in touch with the 5.L.1.. and was a prominent member the- S.L.I. Did Comrades Association.

His home was partially destroyed in the raids, and he died at the home his daughter.

He leaves widow and eight children to whom all will extend sympathy

With the S.L.I, he served for over 31 years of which 30 were abroad.

He was in the Third Burma War, and treasured the India Medal with Burmese clasp 1885-87.