Joseph Ballard was the fifth of six children of John Ballard and Eliza neé Riley; husband of Eliza Ann neé Skelsey & father of Ada, Lizzie, Nellie, Joseph & Eliza. He was born in Foleshill, Warwickshire in 1883. Joseph worked in engineering before he enslisted as Private 66473 in the Royal Garrison Artillery on 15th October 1915. Joseph disembarked in France on 5th June 1916 & was posted to 30th Heavy Battery Royal Garrison Artillery on 14th June 1916. After a year overseas Joseph was granted leave to the UK from 28th June 1917 to 8th July 1917. 30th Heavy Battery was equipped with 60 pounder (5 inch) guns. Joseph was killed in action north of Arras on 20th June 1918.

Paul Ballard