Lance Corporal Joseph Burton enlisted into the Sherwood Foresters on the 11th November 1935 on a regular 7/5 engagement. Prior to the Second World War, he served as the Ram Handler for the 2nd Battalion. Joesph served with the 2nd Battalion and was in “A” coy, No. 2 Platoon No. 6 Section. In January 1943, he was serving in the 2nd Battalion and was HQ Coy. On the 5th January 1943, he was appointed unpaid Lance Corporal.  

In 1946, he was discharged to A Reserve. On the 7th February 1946, he was transferred to Section B Reserve and then on the 11th November 1947 was transferred to Z Reserve.