Almost 110 years ago, in the heart of the Great War, the pages of a local newspaper offered a glimpse into the lives of Southampton's brave sons serving on battlefields across the globe. 

The March 1915 edition of Southampton Pictorial featured a series of poignant portraits sent home from the front lines, a testament to the courage and resilience of these young men who sacrificed so much for their country.

In the early days of the conflict, fourteen intrepid Southampton lads joined the 3rd Hants Battery of the Royal Field Artillery, embarking on a perilous journey to India with the first detachment of the 5th Hants. 

The Pictorial shared a snapshot of their humble bungalow in Lahore, where these young soldiers found a temporary respite from the horrors of war. 

Two of the Southampton contingent, Gunner Beeston and Gunner Lucas, were captured in a heartwarming image, perched atop a majestic camel, their faces etched with a mixture of curiosity and camaraderie.

From the sun-drenched plains of India, another remarkable photograph arrived at the Southampton newspaper offices. It depicted Lance Corporal E C Watling, a former Southampton tramway conductor, seated in regal surroundings that seemed worlds away from the freezing trenches of his comrades fighting in Europe. 

The image, accompanied by a heartfelt letter, revealed the English soldiers' warm reception in India, where the Hampshires were met with admiration and respect by the native population.

Meanwhile, on the battlefields closer to home, two of our brave Tommies endured the gruelling conditions of the trenches in France. 

Despite the biting wind, the freezing cold, and the constant threat of enemy fire, their faces were illuminated by a determined smile as they proudly displayed their latest weapon against the elements. 

These unnamed Southampton soldiers found solace in their woolen garments, a small comfort in the midst of such hardship.

Even in the face of adversity, these courageous young men managed to find moments of joy and camaraderie. 

A humorous photograph published in the Southampton Pictorial captured the lighthearted spirit of three Sotonians—Corporal W Rabbetts, Corporal L Godden, and Driver A Wearn.

Between battles, they engaged in a playful re-enactment, donning a captured German soldier's trench coat and helmet and staging a mock tragedy. 

It was a temporary cessation from the horrors of war, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, human resilience and a sense of humour can prevail.