Joseph Watson was the son of Joseph Watson, born Gateshead, and Alice Robinson, born Aycliffe. They has married in 1890. In the 1911 census they were living in Aycliffe. Joseph Watson senior was 52 and worked as a colliery labourer. Joseph Watson junior was 13 years old and at school.

Joseph Watson enlisted 27 November, 1916 at West Hartlepool. He was 18 years old and worked as a railway goods clerk for N.E.R. He joined the 13th Coy. Coldstream Guards at Pte. 20529. Joseph was 5'8" tall, weighed 140 lbs, and had brown eyes and dark brown hair.

Joseph was admitted to hospital December 16, 1916, suffering from syncope. Joseph had told the doctors that he had had a bad attack of pneumonia at the age of 4 years and had suffered from heart trouble since. He had giddiness and fainting fits and shortness of breath. Joseph had only managed 3 days work since enlisting. The doctors found that he was suffering from valvular disease of the heart.

Joseph was discharged as he was no longer physically fit for war service. His character was described as sober and hardworking.