Joseph was educated at Tullabey and Clongowes. He gained a commission in the R.A.M.C., and served under the rank of Surgeon Lieutenant from 30th January 1892, then Captain from 30th January 1895, when he went to the Chiral Campaign. He was mentioned in despatches for his actions during this campaign. From 1897-1898 he served on the N.W. Frontier, India, gaining the Queen Victoria’s Medal with three bars. Then afterwards he went to South Africa, from 1899 to 1902, receiving the Queen’s Medal with five bars, and the King’s Medal with two bars. On 30th March 1904, he gained promotion to Major. At the outbreak of war, Joseph formed and became the Commanding Officer of the 11th Field Ambulance, having been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel on the 6th August 1914. He then sailed with the unit to France on the 24th. On 23rd April 1915, at 8.00a.m., he gave a speech and then left the unit to become Assistant Director of Medical Services for the 29th Division. Whilst serving under this role he attained the rank of temporary Colonel. He was sent to Gallipoli, where he served with No 26 Casualty Clearing Station, and took part in the landing at Suvla Bay. He was evacuated sick on 1st December 1915 and returned to England. When he recovered he returned to France with the 29th Division. On 17th March 1916, he visited his old unit, the 11th Field Ambulance, but by June had become ill and was invalided back to the UK. Joseph never recovered from his illness. He was the fourth son of Bernard (a Barrister) and Helen Adye (daughter of John Adye Curran) of Shannon Way, Athlone. He married twice and had one son.