He was born in Moorfields, Bramley, Yorkshire, On the 22nd September 1895. His father Joseph was a school master, (at the time teaching Languages and Science), who was married to Mary Helen and they had 9 children, including 6 boys.

He is one of four brothers who enlisted, and 3 Edmund were killed including Victor Watmough and John Cyril Watmough

Before the family moved to the North East, John's father was actively involved in politics and became a political agent. By 1901 the family were residing at 43 Marine Approach, South Shields. Henry's youngest brother Cecil, was born in the North East about 1910.

His father moved to London to become a 'Secretary to a Political Association' leaving his family who were residing by this time at 41 Meldon Terrace, Heaton.

On enlistment at Newcastle on the 8th December 1915, Henry was 20 years and 2 and a half months old, stating his trade as a bookeeper. Also stating that he wanted to be in the Non Combatant Corps, but was enrolled in the Royal Field Artillery.

At the time of his enlistment the family had moved to 25 Ninth Avenue, Heaton, Newcastle.

His medical history shows that he had dental problems. Height was given as 5 feet 9 and a half inch and weighed 128 lbs.

Originally posted in the 'A' Res Bde from the 16th February 1917. Henry was sent overseas to Le Havre on the 25th June 1917, and was transferred to the Royal Garrison Artillery and allocated a new serial number. We believe he was in the 244th (S) Battery.

He was receiving an extra 6p for a Class 1 Proficiency award. He was granted leave on August 10th, 1918 and left for the UK via Boulogne, also he ceases to be Battery Accountant.

Whilst in service in the field, he was reverted back to a Gunner, due to 'Disobedience of Censorship regulations' dated the 19th September 1918. By this time in the Royal Garrison Artillery. O/C 90 Bde confirmed the punishment. Then on the 19th September he disobeyed a order from his R.S.M. and had to forfeit 7 days pay.

Posted to Ripon for discharge ready for release 9th of January 1919.

When he was demobilised he was asked to sign Army Form Z 22 Statement of Disability and his original service number had been inserted 174565. He officially left Harrowby Camp Grantham on the 12th January 1919 for a 28 day leave. Henry Francis survived the war and was transferred to Class Z at Dover on the 9th February 1919. He was sent his medals which he received in December 1921.

Henry Francis Watmough was appointed administrator of his 3 brother's wills, who were killed as well as his mother's will, who died on the 19th February 1919. His father was at this time living at 49 George Street, Shipley, Yorkshire.

There was some problems concerning the Memorial plaque and entitlement of medals of his 3 deceased brothers.