James Wild

Born in Pemberton, near Wigan, he was a weaver before he enlisted in the 68 Regiment in November 1808, aged 15 years, possibly as a Drummer Boy. He served at Walcheren and in the Peninsular War as a Bugler and was twice slightly wounded. In 1823, he was promoted to Bugle-Major, a position he held until 1834, when he was reduced to Private. James Wild was discharged in November 1835, aged 42 years, because of a liver disorder - the result of "indulgence in ardent spirit".