My great-uncle Tommy was the brother of my grandfather, William Kilcullen.  He was shot by a sniper, aged 20 on 27th March, 1915.  The excerpt from the local paper in Dundee stated - "SHOT IN THE HEAD" - 'PEOPLE'S JOURNAL' FOOTBALL PRIZE-WINNER DIES AT THE FRONT" - The name of Private Thomas Kilcullen, 5th Black Watch, is the latest to be added to the ever-growing list of those who have laid down their lives for their country.  The news at his death was conveyed to his parents in a letter, dated 30th March, received from one of the regimental chaplains.  Relating how Kilcullen met his death he says:- His Company only returned to their billets last night and from then I got particulars of his death and burial two or three days previously.  He was shot in the head while on duty, and died about half an hour later.  Lieut. McCabe buried him in the absence of any Roman Catholic chaplain or priest.  He was buried in the grounds of a convent near where he fell.  Kilcullen, who was 20 years of age, was employed before the outbreak of the war as a dresser with Messrs Gilroy, Sons, & Co.  His parents reside at 141 Brook Street.  It may be mentioned that Kilcullen was successful on winning the £100 prize in the 'People's Journal' football competition last year.

My great-uncle Tommy had wanted to emigrate to Australia.  Sadly, the outbreak of the war extinguished his dreams, and his life.  Tommy lies with his brave comrades at the Rue-David Military Cemetery, Fleurbaix.

I wish we had met, great-uncle Tommy.

ALWAYS IN OUR THOUGHTS, FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS x.

Karen Williams