Charles was born in Beesby, East Lindsey Lincolnshire.
The 1911 census records Charles aged 15, working on a farm, and brother John Wilfred, living with their parents Ellen and William Wood, a shepherd, of Woodthorpe.
He enlisted at Skegness giving his place of residence as Alford, Lincolnshire.
Charles Wood was killed in action on July 3rd 1916, with the 8th Battalion in the area of Fricourt Wood. The 8th Battalion was heavily involved in the opening day of the Battle of the Somme attacking near Fricourt, advancing to objectives like Lozenge Alley, Dart Lane and Brandy Trench. They suffered significant casualties but taking ground, consolidating positions, and repelling German counterattacks, marking a brutal but successful start to their Somme offensive. For the 8th Lincolns, it was a bloody but defining moment, establishing their reputation for fierce fighting early in the campaign.
Private Charles Wood lies in an unknown grave and is commemorated on Pier and Face 1C of the Thiepval Memorial, Somme, France.
Private, 12148, Charles Wood 8th. Service Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment was entitled to the 1915 Star, qualifying date September 10th. 1915 and the British War and Victory Medals.
His soldier’s effects of £8 2s 4d and war gratuity of £8 10s and pension were paid to his father.
He is remembered with honour on the Belleau War Memorial inside St. John the Baptist Church.
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