Aberystwyth University War Memorial

Edwin William Barton, M.A., Second Lieutenant, Lancashire Fusiliers. Edwin was born on 7 November 1891, the son of William J. Barton and Mrs W. A. Barton. He was educated at Swansea Grammar School and at Aberystwyth, passing out in 1912. Edwin enlisted into the Artist’s Rifles in 1915, and was commissioned on 4 June 1916 into the 2/5th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers. Edwin remained on home service, and married Marjorie Denne Findley at Manchester on 31 October 1916, the couple setting up home at Nearcloughside Farm, Werneth Low, Gee Cross, Hyde, Cheshire. Edwin became ill soon after, and died in hospital at Manchester on 27 April 1917, aged 25. He is buried at Birch-in-Rusholme (St. James) Churchyard, and is also commemorated on the Screen Wall at Manchester Southern Cemetery.

William Charles Beynon, B.A., Second Lieutenant, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. William was born on 23 March 1888, the son of Enoch and Bessie Beynon, of 18, George Street, Swansea. He was educated at Swansea Grammar School and at Aberystwyth, passing out in 1912, becoming Assistant Schoolmaster at Brynmill School, Swansea. He joined the Inns of Court Officer Training Corps in 1915, and was commissioned into the Royal Welsh Fusiliers on 5 September 1916. On 23 February 1917, William was posted to France, where he joined the 2nd Battalion, South Wales Borderers, which was attached to 87 Brigade, 29th Division. William saw his first major action at Monchy-le-Preux, during the Battle of Arras, on 23 April 1917, and was badly wounded. He was evacuated to the Casualty Clearing Station at Etrun, where he died of his wounds on 4 May 1917. William was 29 years old, and is buried at Duisans British Cemetery, Etrun, France. The photograph of William is courtesy of Lieutenant Colonel Nick Lock, OBE, MA.

Thomas George Deane Burdett, MC, Captain, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Thomas was born at Rhyl on 15 February 1881, the son of George Deane Burdett and Claudia H. Deane Burdett. Claudia was from Aberystwyth, and Thomas was educated at Aberystwyth Grammar School, and at the University. He became a solicitor prior to the war, and was commissioned on 2 September 1914 into the 1/7th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. The battalion was attached to 158 Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division, and landed at Gallipoli on 9 August 1915. Here the Division was immediately thrown into action, and spent the next few days in isolated pockets, fighting against a Turkish counter-attack during the Battle of Sari Bair, then the ensuing Attack on Scimitar Hill. The Division remained here throughout the coming months, and suffered severe losses in manpower strength during the great November 1915 blizzard on Gallipoli, when its total strength was reduced to less than that of a full-strength Brigade. On 11 December 1915 the Division was evacuated to Mudros, and by 23 December 1915 were moved to Egypt. They remained on the Suez Canal Defences for the next twelve months, and in early 1917 moved into Palestine, where they remained for the duration of the war, fighting at the Battles of Gaza, and successfully capturing Jerusalem. Thomas was killed in action during the Third Battle of Gaza, on 6 November 1917. He was 36 years old, and is buried at Beersheba War Cemetery, Israel.

Philip Spencer Chattaway, Second Lieutenant, Cheshire Regiment. Philip was born on 2 June 1896, the son of Frederick Daniel and Elizabeth Chattaway, of 151, Woodstock Road, Oxford. He had been educated at Aberystwyth and Eton prior to the war, and won a Classical Scholarship to Christ Church, Oxford. The outbreak of war put a halt to his education, and on 14 April 1915 Philip was commissioned into the Cheshire Regiment. He was posted to France, where he joined the 6th Battalion, Cheshire Regiment, which was attached to 118 Brigade, 39th Division. The Division moved to France at the end of February 1916, and on 30 June 1916 took part in an attack at Richebourg l’Avoue. The Division moved to the Somme in August 1916, where it fought at the Battle of the Ancre Heights, where they captured the Schwaben Redoubt. Philip was killed in action during the storming of the redoubt, on 14 October 1916. He was 20 years old, and is buried at Lonsdale Cemetery, Authille, France.

David Brynmor Chiles-Evans, DSO, MRCS, LRCP, Lieutenant-Colonel, Royal Army Medical Corps. David was the son of David and Elizabeth Evans, of 2, Goring Villas, Burry Port. He was a regular soldier, and at the outbreak of war was the Medical Officer of the 1st Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment, which was attached to 18 Brigade, 6th Division. On 10 September 1914 the Division landed at St Nazaire, before moving to reinforce the BEF on the Aisne, before the whole army was moved north into Flanders. Here they took part in the Action of Hooge during June 1915. David was the medical Officer that examined the detainee Private Harry Farr of the 1st West York’s early in 1916, after he had twice been treated for being ‘nervy’. Harry was subsequently executed for Cowardice, a sentence which has only in recent years been rescinded, and a full pardon given him. In 1916 the Division were on the Somme, and David was wounded here, at Ginchy, on 17 September 1916 but returned to duty. The following year saw the Division at Arras, where they fought at the Battle of Hill 70. David was killed during this time, on 23 April 1917. He was 40 years old, and is buried at Bethune Town Cemetery, France.

Gwilym Mansel Pritchard Davies, Rifleman, A/204035, London Regiment. Gwilym was the only son of Thomas Rhys Davies and Mag Hopkins Davies, of The Tonn, Llanon, Cardiganshire. The family later moved to Bryn Derwen, Llangadock. Gwilym was educated at Bristol and Aberystwyth Universities, and served for a time as a Certificated Teacher. He enlisted at Neath into the 12th Battalion (The Rangers), the London Regiment, which moved to France in December, 1914. On 8 February 1915 they joined 84 Brigade, 28th Division, and fought at Second Ypres. On 12 February 1916 they moved to become part of 168 Brigade, 56th Division, and fought at Gommecourt, and the Somme Battles of 1916. The Division followed the German withdrawal to the Hindenburg Line in March, 1917 before fighting at the Scarpe during the Arras Offensive. They then fought at Third Ypres and Cambrai, and on 31 January 1918 transferred to 175 Brigade, 58th Division and met the German Spring Offensive in the St. Quentin sector. The Division remained in the area, fighting during the Battles of Villers-Brettoneux and Amiens, when the German offensive was halted. Gwilym was wounded around this period, and Died of Wounds on 24 August 1918, aged 29. He is remembered on the Vis-En-Artois Memorial, France. Gwilym is not commemorated on the memorial.

John Davies, Cadet, 175380, Royal Air Force. John was the son of Daniel and Elizabeth Davies, of Pencastell y Farw, Llangeitho. He enlisted into the Royal Air Force in 1918, training as Cadet. John died at RAF Uxbridge on 8 December 1918, aged 19, and is buried at St. Caron Churchyard Extension, Tregaron.

John Llewelyn Davies, Major, Essex Regiment. John was born on 10 September 1879, the son of Mr. and Mrs. D. J. Davies, of Neath. He was educated at Ald. Davies’s School (where his father was headmaster), University College, Aberystwyth, and at Emmanuel College, Cambridge. On leaving Cambridge, John went as lecturer to Carmarthen Training College for a short period, and subsequently became science master at the Perse School, Cambridge. In May 1915, he was appointed headmaster of Cardiff High School. He was commissioned into the Essex Regiment after the outbreak of war, and was posted to France with the 11th Battalion, Cheshire Regiment, which was attached to 71 Brigade, 24th Division. On 30 August 1915 the battalion landed at Boulogne, and proceeded to positions at Loos. John was badly wounded during the opening assault at Loos on 25 September 1915. His obituary states that he died of his wounds in hospital at Wesel, but John has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial, France.

William John Davies, B.Sc., Lieutenant, Royal Garrison Artillery. William was the son of John and Louisa Hughes Davies, of School House, Llangybi. He was educated at Aberystwyth University prior to marrying Jeannie Mephzibah, and the couple set up home at Holmthorpe House, 1, Holmthorpe, Red Hill, Surrey, where William was a Schoolmaster. William enlisted into the Inns of Court OTC, and was commissioned on 12 November 1916, and landed in France on 27 December 1916, joining the 140th Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery. William served with the Battery until being mortally wounded at Arras on 14 October 1918, dying the same day. William was 32 years old, and is buried at Bucqouy Road Cemetery, Ficheux, France.

Edward Dickinson, Captain, Yorkshire Regiment. Edward was born at Burnley in 1886, the son of Doctor David Dickinson and Jane Dickinson. He had played football for Aberystwyth Football Club whilst at Aberystwyth University, and was science master at Darlington Technical College prior to the war. Edward enlisted into the Durham Light Infantry at the outbreak of war, and on 24 October 1914 was commissioned into the 11th Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment (The Green Howards). In November he became a full Lieutenant, and on 29 December 1914 was gazetted as Captain. In May 1915 Edward was transferred to the 1st Battalion, Royal Dublin Fusiliers and left England on 25 May 1915 for the Dardanelles with reinforcements. He arrived at Cape Helles on 14 June 1915, joining the battalion, which was attached to 86 Brigade, 29th Division. The battalion had seen heavy fighting since the landings of 25 April 1915. Edward was killed at Gallipoli on 28 June 1915. He was 29 years old, and is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

Frederick William Drew, Second Lieutenant, East Yorkshire Regiment. Frederick was the son of Elizabeth Drew, of Bristol, and the husband of Isabel Drew, of Idene, Sandford Road, Mapperley, Nottingham. He was commissioned into the 9th Battalion, East Yorshire Regiment, before being posted to France, and attached to their 7th Battalion, which was attached to 50 Brigade, 17th (Northern) Division. Frederick was killed on the Somme on 5 November 1916, aged 33. He is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France.

Griffith Oliver Edwards, MC, Second Lieutenant, Northumberland Fusiliers. Griffith was born at Hackney in 1895, the son of Richard Oliver Edwards and Mary Anne Edwards, of Corris. He was commissioned from the 28th Battalion, London Regiment (Artists Rifles) into the Northumberland Fusiliers on 5 September 1916. Griffith was posted to France on 26 October 1916, where he joined the 11th Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers. The battalion had been in France since August 1915, was attached to 68 Brigade, 23rd Division. In May 1917 they took part in the Battle of Messines, before moving further north to Ypres, and took part in the Battle of the Menin Road. Griffith was badly wounded here on 20 September 1917, and was brought back to Ypres, dying that same day. He is buried at Ypres Reservoir Cemetery, Belgium. Griffith had been awarded the Military Cross just prior to his death, for his gallantry at Messines. The award was published in the London Gazette of 17 September 1917, and read; ‘For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in commanding two platoons during an attack. His coolness and cheerfulness under heavy shell fire steadied his men, and later, when sent up to reinforce, he did so with great promptness and exactitude.’

Oswald Henry Feilden, Captain, Leicestershire Regiment. Oswald was born at Borth in 1887 the son of Lt.-Col. Robert and Emily Jane Feilden, of 1, Cambrian Terrace. His parents later resided at Lane End, Hartney, Spilsby, Lincs. Oswald had been educated at Llandovery College from 1898 to 1900, before taking his degree at Aberystwyth. Oswald joined the Leicestershire Territorial’s in 1911, and was commissioned into the 5th Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment on 15 January 1912. The Division had served in Ireland and had been involved in the Easter uprising, before being sent to the Western Front, where they landed in France on 24 February 1917, attached to 177 Brigade, 59th Division. They fought during the German retreat to the Hindenburg Line, and then moved to Ypres. After training around the Vormezeele area in Flanders in early September 1917, Oswald’s Battalion moved to St. Jean near Ypres, to prepare for a major attack which was timed to take place on 26 September. At 05.50 hours on 26 September 1917, the 2/5th Leicester’s, attacked hill 37, taking all its objectives. Oswald was severely wounded in this action and died from his wounds at 46 Casualty Clearing Station, Proven on 29 September 1917, aged 30. Oswald is buried there, at Mendinghem Military Cemetery, Belgium. He is also commemorated on a memorial at St. Matthews Church, Borth.

Hugh Slader Glanville, Private, 320299, Welsh Regiment. Hugh was the son of James Cox Slader Glanville and Anna Maria Glanville, of Llanteg. He enlisted at Carmarthen into the Pembroke Yeomanry, with the service number 4286. The Pembroke Yeomanry had formed in Tenby for Home Defence, as part of the South Wales Mounted Brigade. They arrived in Egypt in March 1916, and on 2 February 1917 were disbanded, joining with the Glamorgan Yeomanry to form the 24th Battalion of the Welsh Regiment, as part of 231 Brigade, 74th (Yeomanry) Division. Hugh’s service number then changed to 320299. The Division first saw action during the Second Battle of Gaza. Hugh was wounded during the Third Battle of Gaza, and Died of Wounds on 11 November 1917, aged 26. He is buried at Beersheba War Cemetery, Israel. His brother William Leslie Glanville served alongside him, and at the time of Hugh’s death was wounded and in Hospital at El Arish, Egypt. Fortunately William survived the war.

Cyril Mortimer Green, Captain, Royal Sussex Regiment. Cyril was the son of Thomas Mortimer Green and Catherine Green, of Aberystwyth, and the husband of Gwendoline Mortimer Green, of 23, Southwood Court, Golder’s Green, London. Cyril was a native of Denbigh, and had been educated at the University Colleges of Exeter, Carmarthen and Aberystwyth, along with his brother Hugh (see below), before being gazetted as Second Lieutenant into the 2nd Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment in October 1914. Cyril served in France until he was severely wounded at Festubert on 9 May 1915, and returned home for treatment. Returning to the front, he was attached to the 16th Battalion, Royal Sussex Regiment, who were attached to 230 Brigade, 74th Division. The Division was taking part in the advance into Palestine, and had just successfully fought in the Third Battle of Gaza, when Cyril was killed in action on 6 November 1917. He was 29 years old, and is buried at Beersheba War Cemetery, Israel.

Hugh Mortimer Green, Captain, Welsh Regiment. Hugh was the son of Thomas Mortimer Green and Catherine Green, of Aberystwyth, and the Brother of Cyril Mortimer Green (see above). Hugh was educated at Carmarthen and Aberystwyth Universities along with Cyril, and was gazetted into the Welsh Regiment. He was posted to the 1/4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was the local Territorial Battalion, attached to 159 Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division. The Division landed at Cape Helles, Gallipoli, on 9 August 1915, and was immediately thrown into action, spending the next few days in isolated pockets. Hugh was killed in action on 10 August 1915 at the Battle of Sari Bair (Attack on Scimitar Hill). He has no known grave, and so is remembered on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

Oswald Robert John Green, Lieutenant, Welsh Regiment. Oswald was the son of William Arthur and Sophia Green, and the husband of Winifred Gwendoline Green, of Buchland House, Neath Abbey, Neath. He was a Holder of the Royal Humane Society Medal for life saving from drowning, and had played football for Aberystwyth Football Club prior to the war. Oswald was commissioned into the 9th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was attached to 58 Brigade, 19th (Western) Division. The Division moved to France during July 1915, and moved to positions near Loos, where it took part in the opening attack of the Battle of Loos on 25 September 1915. The following year the Division moved to the Somme, where it took part in the second wave of the attack on Ovillers-La Boiselle on 1 July, capturing the village at heavy cost. The 9th Welsh had played a big part in the taking of Ovillers, but Oswald had been mortally wounded. He died on 5 July 1916, aged 35, as a result of his wounds, and is buried at Heilly Station Cemetery, Mericourt-L’Abbe, France.

John Llewelyn Griffiths, Second Lieutenant, Northumberland Fusiliers. John was the son of William and Martha Griffiths, of 1, Turberville Road, Mount Pleasant, Porth, Rhondda. He resided at Pontrhydfendigaid prior to the war, and was commissioned into the 15th Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers. John was posted to France where he joined the 12th Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers, which was attached to 62 Brigade, 21st Division. The Division landed in France between 2 and 13 September 1915, moving to positions at Loos, in reserve, It was sent into action on 26 September, suffering over 3,800 casualties. The Division moved to the Somme in 1916, in readiness for the launch of the Somme offensive on 1 July 1916. John was killed on the Somme during the build up to the battle on 26 June 1916. He was 22 years old, and is buried at Dartmoor Cemetery, Becordel Becourt, France.

Arthur Gordon Haigh, Second Engineer, Royal Engineers. Arthur was born at Natal on 29 June 1883, the only son of Arthur Harry Haigh, and Mary Browne, of St. Catherine’s, Ontario. He was educated at Aberystwyth University, and at Christ’s College, Cambridge, becoming a Civil Engineer with the London County Council Sewerage, being employed in the construction of the massive new network of sewerage systems under London. Arthur worked on the Canadian Railways prior to the war, and was commissioned into the Royal Engineers on 12 June 1915. Due to his experience in London, Arthur was posted to the 172nd Tunnelling Company, Royal Engineers, at Ypres. The tunnellers were working at the Bluff and St. Eloi mine workings, constructing underground mines beneath the German positions there. Arthur was killed at Ypres on 15 February 1916, aged 30. His obituary states that he was buried at Gordon Terrace Military Cemetery. The cemetery is now called Spoilbank Cemetery. However, at some time Arthur’s grave was lost, and today he is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Belgium. Arthur is not named on the University memorial.

Eric Guy Harries, Captain, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Eric was born on 30 October 1892, the son of Mr. Thomas Davies and Annette Martha Harries, of Grosvenor House, Aberystwyth. He was an engineer at the Cambrian Railway Works at Oswestry prior to the war, and was commissioned into the 1/7th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers on 1 April 1913. At the outbreak of war the battalion became attached to 158 Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division. The Division landed at Cape Helles, Gallipoli, on 9 August 1915, and was immediately thrown into action, spending the next few days in isolated pockets, fighting against a Turkish counter-attack during the Battle of Sari Bair. Eric was wounded on Chocolate Hill on 10 August 1915, and was evacuated aboard the SS Euripides. He died aboard her on the way to Mudros on 17 August 1915, aged 22. Eric was buried ashore, at East Mudros Military Cemetery, Greece.

Percy George Sefton Harries, 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Flying Corps. Percy was born in 1891, the son of Herbert J and Elizabeth Harris, of 14, Percy Road, Wrexham. He originally enlisted into the 17th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which was attached to 115 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division, landing in France with the battalion on 1 December 1915, Percy fought at Mametz Wood the following year, and on 20 November 1916 was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant with the battalion. He subsequently transferred to the Royal Flying Corps, and was posted to 21 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps as an Observer. By the time Percy joined the Squadron, it was at Ypres, equipped with the R.E.8., and was performing artillery ranging duties. On 7 June 1917, during the opening day of the Battle of Messines, its artillery spotting was responsible on one day for putting 72 German batteries out of action. On 11 August 1917, Percy was flying as observer aboard an R.E.8., Serial A3863, piloted by Second Lieutenant C.E. Holloway, when their aircraft was attacked by German fighters over Zonnebeke, and crashed to earth at 19.10, after being shot down by Leutnant T. Quant, of Jasta 36. Both Percy and his pilot were killed in the crash. Percy was 26 years old, and is commemorated on the Arras Flying Services Memorial, France.

Alfred James Hinxman, Lieutenant, Wiltshire Regiment. Alfred was born at Devizes, Wiltshire in 1893, the son of Alfred and Emma Hinxman, of 146, Fisherton Street, Salisbury. After receiving his education at Aberystwyth, Alfred was commissioned into the 5th Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment, which had formed at Devizes in August 1914, as part of the 13th Division. The battalion sailed from Avonmouth with the Division, for the Mediterranean on 1 July 1915, and moved to Mudros before being landed at Cape Helles, Gallipoli on 6 July 1915, relieving the 29th Division. They left and returned to Mudros at the end of the month, and the entire Division landed at ANZAC Cove from 3 August 1915, taking part in heavy fighting in the coming days. Alfred was reported as missing, presumed killed in action, on 10 August 1915. He was 21 years old, and is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

Philip George Herbert Howells, Second Lieutenant, North Staffordshire Regiment. Philip was born at Burton-on-Trent in 1897, the son of Phillip Henry Howells and Blanche Howells (nee Weeks). His mother was from Brynmawr, and by 1911 the family had moved back to her native home, to 16, Alma Street, Brynmawr. Philip was educated at Aberystwyth University where he became a member of the OTC, and before graduating enlisted into the army and was commissioned as Second Lieutenant into the 10th Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment on 27 September 1915, joining the battalion at Darlington. In November 1915 the battalion moved to Rugeley, Cannock Chase to join the 1st Reserve Brigade. Philip was drafted to France on 3 September 1916, joining the 8th Battalion, North Staffordshire Regiment, which was in positions near Dranoutre, refitting following heavy losses on the Somme, and was attached to 57 Brigade, 19th (Western) Division. At the beginning of October the division, now fully rebuilt, moved back to the Somme sector, to take part in the latter phases of the Somme offensive, and by 20 October had reached Albert. The 8th North Staffs moved into the Stuff Redoubt trenches on 24 October and were not relieved until 1 November. The battalion had a relatively quiet next few weeks, before entering the line at Regina Trench on 18 November 1916 and launched an assault upon Desire Trench. Conditions were terrible, with fresh snow covering the ground, and the battalion suffered severe casualties before the survivors withdrew back to their own lines. Philip was posted as missing during the fighting that day and was later deemed to have been killed in action. The 20-year-old is buried in Grandcourt Road Cemetery, Grandcourt, France.

William John Howells, Captain, Welsh Regiment. William was born in White Lion Farm, Eglwys Cummin, in 1888. He resided with his Grandfather, Ben John of Brook, Laugharne prior to being educated at Tremoilet School and Whitland Grammar School, before gaining a BA with Honours at Aberystwyth University. William worked at Lampeter University prior to the war. He enlisted into the Welsh Regiment at the outbreak of hostilities, and was commissioned into the 8th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which had formed at Cardiff during August 1914 attached to 40 Brigade, 13th Western Division. The Division assembled at Salisbury Plain, and in June 1915 moved to the Mediterranean. On 4 July 1915 the Division landed on Cape Helles and relieved the 29th Division. From there, the Division took part in several actions, most notably The Battle of Sari Bair. The Battalion War Diary for the period from 8 August 1915 shows that they had moved up to positions around Chunuk Bair, in support of the Gloucester’s and the Wellington Battalion. The fighting was ferocious and the diary shows that on that one day, the 8th Welsh suffered four officers and four other ranks killed, nine officers and 154 other ranks wounded, and four officers and 266 other ranks missing. William was among the wounded. He was evacuated from Gallipoli, but died of his wounds on 10 August 1915 aboard the Hospital Ship HMHS Valdivia. William was buried at sea, so he is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Turkey.

Vivian Gwynne James, Lieutenant, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Vivian was the son of Lewis and Sarah James, of Min-y-Gaer, Cambridge Street, Barry, Cardiff. After graduating from Aberystwyth, Vivian became Assistant Science Master at Callington, and resided there with his wife, Letitia Louise James. Vivian was commissioned into the 12th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, before being posted to Gallipoli, joining the 1/7th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which was attached to 158 Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division. On 11 December 1915 the Division was evacuated to Mudros, and by 23 December 1915 were moved to Egypt. They remained on the Suez Canal Defences for the next twelve months, where it took part in operations against the Sultan of Darfur, and in March 1917 took part in the advance into Palestine. Vivian was killed in action here on 26 March 1917, during the First Battle of Gaza. He was 28 years old, and is commemorated on the Jerusalem Memorial, Israel. The photograph of Vivian is courtesy of Lieutenant Colonel Nick Lock, OBE, MA.

William James, Pioneer, 159319, Royal Engineers. William was the son of David and Mary James, of 17, Pencae, Taliesin. He originally enlisted at Aberystwyth into the South Wales Borderers, but was transferred to the 5th Battalion Special Brigade, Royal Engineers, which was a Special (Gas) Company. The Battalion was a Stokes mortar unit, attached to the Fourth Army. The Battalion was on the Somme in the summer of 1916, where it was to provide support for the forthcoming Battle of the Somme. William was killed on 27 June 1916 during the build up to the battle, probably whilst moving equipment into place. He was 22 years old, and is buried at Hebuterne Military Cemetery, France.

Griffith Brynarfryn John, Corporal, 106504, Royal Engineers. Griffith was the third son of John and Catherine John, of Glanllwchwr House, Llangennech. He was educated at Aberystwyth University before gaining his BSc at London, and became a teacher at Colne Secondary School. Griffith then joined the staff at Slough Secondary School in 1912, where he was Science Master. On 15 August 1915 Griffith enlisted at Chatham into the Royal Engineers, and landed in France on 17 August 1915 with the 187th Special Company, Royal Engineers, one of the specialists in gas warfare. He was wounded soon after and returned to England on 27 October 1915. Griffith was discharged on medical grounds, and took up a post as a chemist at Fields Munitions Works, at Rainham, Essex. On 14 September 1916 a fire set off a store of explosives in the works, which in turn caused the release of poison gas. Griffith was killed that day while attempting to save the lives of four women workers who had been trapped inside the works. Griffith is not commemorated by the CWGC, as he was a civilian worker at the time of his death, and civilian casualties from the Great War are not commemorated as war dead.

Harold Thomas Johns, Second Lieutenant, Welsh Regiment. Harold was born in 1882, the son of William and Caroline John, of 29, High Street, Troedrhiwfuwch. He was educated at Gelligaer and Pengam Schools, before gaining a scholarship to study at Aberystwyth University from 1900. He possibly went overseas to work, before returning to Britain in November 1914, and was commissioned into the 9th Battalion, Welsh Regiment on 13 March 1915. Harold was later posted to the 8th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was in Mesopotamia, attached to the 13th (Western) Division. During January 1917 the 8th Welsh were given the task of sapping trenches towards the Turkish positions in the Hai Triangle, as part of a larger scale offensive there, when Harold was killed on 11 January 1917, aged 35. He is commemorated on the Basra Memorial, Iraq.

Caradog Jones, Private, 267994, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Caradog was born on 31 July 1899, the son of Elizabeth Jones, of 13, Tanyrallt Terrace, Blaenau Ffestiniog. He enlisted at Ffestiniog on 8 March 1915 into the 17th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Caradog was then transferred to the 20th RWF, before landing in France on 25 June 1916 as a reinforcement to the 16th RWF. He was posted home after having been found to be underage, but in the meantime fought at Mametz Wood. In the summer of 1917 He was posted to Mesopotamia, joining the 8th RWF, which was attached to the 13th (Western) Division. He served there until taking ill, and died of malaria on 3 August 1918, aged 19. Caradog is buried in Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery, Iraq.

Clifford Jones, Lieutenant, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Clifford was born in Whitland, the only son of Rev. Daniel Jones (Baptist Minister, Whitland) and Mrs. Elizabeth Ann Jones, of Bodlondeb, Whitland. Clifford was an Honours Graduate of Wales and Oxon, and was commissioned into the 15th (London Welsh) Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which formed part of the 113 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division. The Division embarked for France from Folkestone on 5 December 1915, disembarking at Boulogne the same day. During the winter and spring of 1916 the Battalion held the line in the Armentières sector, and at the end of May, 1916 moved South with the remainder of the 38th (Welsh) Division to the Somme area, in readiness for the First Battle of The Somme. After surviving the Battle of Mametz Wood, Clifford moved with the Battalion to reserve in the Ypres sector, and the Division didn’t fight again for almost twelve months, until they were brought into the line north of Ypres, tasked with the taking of the village and strongpoint of Pilckem. Clifford was Killed in Action three days into the Battle of Pilckem, on 2 August, 1917, aged 25. He is commemorated on the Menin Gate Memorial.

David Jones, Captain, Welsh Regiment. David was the son of Thomas and Margaret Jane Jones, of Wern Isaf, Llanddewi Brefi. He was a member of the OTC at Aberystwyth, and joined the army straight from University, being commissioned into the 10th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. The Battalion, which was known as the 1st Rhondda Battalion, was attached to 114 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division. On 2 December 1915 the battalion moved to France, and the entire Division moved to the Fleurbaix sector, where it was initiated into trench warfare. During June 1916 the Division marched south to the Somme, and on 7 July 1916 attacked Mametz Wood. The initial attack failed, and it was three days later, on 10 July, that a fresh attack was mounted. After two days of heavy hand to hand fighting within the wood, the Germans withdrew. David was killed on 12 July 1916, during the withdrawal from the wood. He was 23 years old, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France.

Edwin Griffiths Jones, Private, 22360, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Edwin was born in 1884, the son of John and Susannah Jones, of Aberystwyth. Prior to the war he resided with his wife, Lily Jones, at 2, Llican Terrace, Great Orme, Llandudno. He enlisted at Aberystwyth into the 15th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. The battalion was attached to 113 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division, and landed in France on 2 December 1915, moving to the Fleurbaix sector, where it was initiated into trench warfare. On 7 May 1916, a party of the 15th RWF was detailed to raid the German trenches at Fauqissart, and that night the men, armed with clubs, knives and rifles, crossed No Man’s Land into the German lines, killing around 50 Germans, and capturing several prisoners. Edwin was wounded during the raid, and was helped back to the Welshmen’s lines. He was evacuated to Hospital at Merville where he died on 8 May 1916. Edwin is buried at Merville Communal Cemetery, France.

Harold Madoc Jones, MID, Lieutenant, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Harold was the son of John Roberts Jones, J.P. of Bodfeirig, Anglesey, and Eunice Martha Jones. He was educated at Christ’s College, Brecon and Aberystwyth, before becoming a teacher at Cardigan School, lodging at 2, Park Terrace, Cardigan. Harold originally enlisted into the Royal Welsh Fusiliers as a Private, but was commissioned into the 17th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers on 18 March 1915. The battalion was attached to 115 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division. On 4 December 1915 the battalion moved to France, and the entire Division moved to the Fleurbaix sector, where it was initiated into trench warfare. During June 1916 the Division marched south to the Somme, and on 7 July 1916 attacked Mametz Wood. The initial attack failed, and it was three days later, on 10 July, that a fresh attack was mounted. After two days of heavy hand to hand fighting within the wood, the Germans withdrew, and the battered Welshmen moved via Hebuterne to Boesinghe, on the Yser Canal, where it remained until launching its attack on Pilckem Ridge on 31 July 1917. Harold was killed at Pilckem on 31 July 1917. He was 38 years old, and is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Belgium. Harold had been Mentioned in Despatches for his bravery twice during the war. The photograph of Harold is courtesy of Lieutenant Colonel Nick Lock, OBE, MA.

John Arllwyd Jones, B.A., Second Lieutenant, Welsh Regiment. John was born in 1883, the son of David and Elizabeth Jones, of Gyfaellwyd View, Devils Bridge. Prior to the war he became a Teacher at Wrexham County School, and resided with his wife, Winifred Jones, at 56, Alexandra Street, Wrexham. John enlisted at Wrexham into a Training Battalion of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers. He was commissioned into the Welsh Regiment, and landed in France on 6 June 1917, joining the 9th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was attached to 58 Brigade, 19th (Western) Division. He joined the battalion at Messines, and fought with them during the latter stages of the Battle of Messines, and at the opening of the Battle of Pilckem Ridge on 31 July 1917. The Division was relieved on the night of 7/8 August, and after a brief rest, moved back into the front line on 11/12 September, taking up positions near Klein Zillebeke. Here the Division geared up in readiness for a planned attack on 20 September, the Battle of the Menin Road. John was killed in action during the opening of the battle, early on 20 September 1917. He was 34 years old, and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium.

John Emrys Lewis, Second Lieutenant, Somerset Light Infantry. John was born in 1891, the son of Jenkin and Mary Anne Lewis, of Rhiwmynach, Devils Bridge. He was a Teacher prior to the war, and was commissioned into the Somerset Light Infantry. John landed in France on 20 May 1916, and proceeded to join the 8th Battalion, Somerset Light Infantry, which was attached to 63 Brigade, 21st Division. John joined the battalion on the Somme, where it was preparing for its part in the forthcoming offensive of 1 July 1916. The 21st Division moved into positions near Fricourt, with the 8th Somerset Light Infantry being allotted a section of the line opposite Empress Trench, north of Fricourt. At 06.30 on 1 July 1916, amidst the noise of huge underground mines being blown beneath the German lines, whistles blew, and the British climbed out of their trenches. The Somersets took their objectives, but had suffered heavily whilst doing so, coming under intense German machine-gun fire. John had been killed in the early charge that morning. He was 24 years old, and is today buried at Gordon Dump Cemetery, Ovillers-La Boiselle, France. His brother, David, had been killed at Cuinchy on 18 February 1916.

Edward Wynne Lloyd-Jones, MID, Captain, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Edward was born on 13 April 1888, the son of Reverend David Lloyd-Jones, M.A., and Annie Lloyd-Jones, of Vronhaul, Llandinam. He was a cousin to David Davies, MP. Edward was educated at Edinburgh’s Merchiston Castle School and at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, before gaining a position with Roberts & Evans, Solicitors at Aberystwyth, and was studying for his final exams to become a barrister at Aberystwyth University. Edward was commissioned into the 1st/7th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers soon after the outbreak of war. The battalion was a Territorial unit, which mobilised for war at Newtown in August 1914, as part of North Wales Brigade, Welsh Division and moved to Conway until the end of the month, before moving to Northampton. In December the Division moved to Cambridge and then in May 1915 to Bedford, where the Division was numbered and the formation became 158 Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division. On 19 July 1915 the entire Division sailed from Devonport for Imbros and on 9 August 1915 landed at Suvla Bay. The infantry moved off the beaches into the bush, but due to a lack of maps and no knowledge of the terrain, many of the units became disorientated, and the situation became chaotic. Edward was killed in action near Sari Bair two days later, on 10 August 1915. The 27-year-old was originally buried at Sulajik No. 2 Cemetery, Gallipoli, but after the war his grave was exhumed, and he was re-interred in Green Hill Cemetery, Gallipoli. Edward was posthumously Mentioned in Despatches. His brother Ivor served with the same battalion, and was killed in 1917.

Idris Aneurin Morgan, Captain, South Wales Borderers. Idris was the son of Alfred Phillips Morgan and Alma Morgan, of Glyn-Gwy, Builth Wells. He was commissioned into the 11th Battalion, South Wales Borderers, which was attached to 115 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division. The Division had moved to France in December 1915, and the following year fought at Mametz Wood. In July 1917 the Division made its famous attack on Pilckem Ridge, before taking part in the ensuing Battle of Langemarck. The Division was posted to the Armentieres sector at the end of August 1917, remaining there until moving back to the Somme in April 1918. Prior to this, however, the 11th South Wales Borderers were disbanded, and Idris was posted to the 2nd Battalion, South Wales Borderers, which was attached to 87 Brigade, 29th Division. The Germans launched their Spring Offensive on the Somme on 21 March 1918, and weeks later launched a fresh assault on the Lys. The 29th Division was caught up in this, and over the coming days fought a desperate rearguard action. Idris was killed here on 17 April 1918. He was 28 years old, and is buried at Meteren Military Cemetery, France.

Thomas Llewelyn Morgan, B.A., Lance Corporal, G/25406, Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Thomas was the son of Evan and Barbara Morgan, of Pretoria, Llangeitho. The family had moved to 442, Edgware Road, Marylebone prior to the war, where they ran their own dairy business. Thomas enlisted there into the Buffs (East Ken Regiment, and was posted to France at sometime in 1917, joining the 1st Battalion, Buffs, which was attached to 16 Brigade, 6th Division. Thomas joined the battalion at Arras, where they fought at the Battle of Hill 70, and then during the Battle of Cambrai later in the year. In the spring of 1918 the Division was one of those hit by the German Offensive on the Somme, which had been launched on 21 March 1918, and the Division took part in the Battle of St Quentin. They were moved from the line, and went to Flanders to rest, but the following month the Germans launched another offensive on the Lys, and the Division fought during the Battle of Bailleul, the First Battle of Kemmel, and the Second Battle of Kemmel. The battalion was still in Flanders when Thomas was killed on 2 August 1918. He was 19 years old, and is buried at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Belgium.

David Arthur Mort, Pioneer, 155373, Royal Engineers. David was born in 1896, the son of David and Kate Mort, of Llangyfelach, Morriston. He had originally enlisted at Aberystwyth into the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, but was later transferred to the 1st Battalion, Special Brigade, Royal Engineers, a gas warfare unit. David was badly wounded on the Somme in 1916, and was evacuated to the Military Hospital at Rouen, where he died on 1 July 1916, aged 19. David was buried at St. Sever Cemetery, Rouen, France.

John Allen Nicholas, Captain, Royal Field Artillery. John was born in 1890, the son of Rhys and Jennie Nicholas, of Beili Glas, Cwmavon. He was educated at Christ’s Hospital School, Horsham and graduated from Aberystwyth before becoming a Master at Crediton Grammar School. John was commissioned into the 1st (Welsh) Howitzer Brigade, Royal Field Artillery on 29 August 1914.  He embarked for the Middle East and joined the 4th (Welsh) Brigade, Royal Field Artillery on 22 November 1915. The Brigade served in Egypt with the 53rd (Welsh) Division, before being renumbered the 266th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, and then took part in the offensive into Palestine from March 1917 onwards. John survived the campaign in Palestine and had attained the rank of Captain before the battery was disembodied and sent home. He was on his way home through France, after disembarking at Marseilles, when he became ill and died of pneumonia near Cherbourg on 28 January 1919. John was 28 years old, and is buried in Tourlaville Communal Cemetery and Extension, France.

John Peate, Lieutenant, Gloucestershire Regiment. John was born at Llanbrynmair in 1889, the son of Margaret Peate of Ddolfach. He was educated at Machynlleth and Aberystwyth University, and was on the staff at Greenhill Grammar School, Tenby prior to the war. John married Ethel Gertrude Hicks at Tenby in 1915 and the couple lived at Marlborough House, South Cliff Street, Tenby. John was commissioned into the 3rd Battalion, Gloucestershire Regiment, and was posted into the 1st Battalion, Gloucestershire Regiment, which had been in France since the outbreak of war, attached to 3 Brigade, 1st Division. John joined the battalion in time to take part in the Somme Offensive on July 1916, probably arriving before the 1st Division moved to the Somme from Loos. By 5 July the 1st Gloucester’s had reached Bruay, and moved to billets in Albert by 11 July, prior to moving into the front line near Contalmaison. The 1st Division saw its first action on the Somme during the Battle of Bazentin soon afterwards, fighting to the right of the Australians as they assaulted Pozieres Ridge, and suffered terribly during the fighting around the OG lines. Heavy fighting, interspersed with rest periods, carried on over the coming weeks. By 7 September the 1st Gloucester’s moved into positions to carry on the offensive towards High Wood, and at dawn on the following morning launched their assault. Unfortunately the artillery support fell short, and many casualties were suffered from friendly fire. John was killed when the 1st Gloucester’s attacked High Wood on 8 September 1916. The 27-year-old has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France.

David James Phillips, Able Seaman, Z/1168, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. David was born on 17 December 1886, the son of Stephen and Mary Phillips, of Waterton Hall, Bridgend. After gaining his degree at Aberystwyth he became Assistant County Surveyor of West Suffolk. David enlisted into the Public Schools Battalion, Royal Fusiliers on 30 December 1914, before transferring to the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, and was posted to Hawke Battalion. The battalion landed at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915 attached to the Royal Naval Division, and remained there, in terrible conditions, for the remainder of the campaign. On 11 September 1915 David was asleep in a funk hole in the front line when he was accidentally shot by Able Seaman Kenny, who was cleaning his rifle. David was 28 years old, and was buried in a gully just off the communication trench leading to his battalions position. His grave was lost after the war, and David is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

Albert Victor Porter, Private, 26398, Essex Regiment. Albert was the son of Samuel and Maria Porter, of Southend-on-Sea, and had enlisted into the 3rd Battalion, Essex Regiment, which was a Reserve Battalion. He died at the Dovercourt Military Hospital on 14 March 1916. Albert was 26 years old, and is buried at Southend-On-Sea (St. John the Baptist) Churchyard, England. His brother Ernest also fell.

Ernest James Porter, Lieutenant, London Regiment. Ernest was the son of Samuel and Maria Porter, of 14, Chancellor Road, Southend-on-Sea. He was a Master at Manchester Grammar School prior to the war, and was commissioned from the OTC in January 1916 into the 22nd Battalion, London Regiment, (The Queen’s), which was attached to 142 Brigade, 47th (2nd London) Division. The Division had been in France since March 1915, and had fought at Aubers, and at Festubert during May 1915. During September 1915 the Division fought at the Battle of Loos, remaining in positions north of Arras over the coming winter. Ernest joined the battalion here, and moved with it to the Somme, where they fought at the Battle of Flers-Courcelette, and then at the Battle of Le Transloy, where the Division captured Eaucourt l’Abbe. Ernest was taken prisoner by the Germans during the Somme battles, and died in captivity on 22 September 1916. He was 32 years old, and is buried at Porte-De-Paris Cemetery, Cambrai, France. His brother Albert also fell.

William John Pritchard, Private, 29579, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. William was the son of Owen and Anne Pritchard, of Bryn Dyffryn, Talysam, Penygroes, Carnarvonshire. He had been educated at Bangor and Aberystwyth prior to enlisting on 9 December 1915 into the Royal Welsh Fusiliers. William was posted to France on 18 June 1916, and was posted to the 10th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which was attached to 76 Brigade, 3rd Division. The division was on the Somme, preparing for its assault against Longueval and Delville Wood. William was killed at Longueval on 20 July 1916, during an action in which his battalion was awarded two Victoria Crosses. He was 20 years old and is buried in Delville Wood Cemetery, Longueval, France.

Tom Rees, Captain (Observer), Royal Flying Corps. Tom was the son of Thomas and Alice Rees, of Troedyrhiw Villa, Devynock, Brecon. He had been commissioned into the 14th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which was attached to 113 Brigade, 8th (Welsh) Division. Tom moved to France with the Division, but early in 1916 volunteered for service with the Royal Flying Corps. He became an observer with 11 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps, which was equipped with the F.E.2b. On 17 September 1916, Tom was acting as observer to Second Lieutenant Lionel Bertram Frank Morris, when their aircraft, F.E.2b, serial 7018, was spotted by a flight of six German fighters, led by the famous airman Oswald Boelcke. One of the German pilots was an inexperienced flyer, who had not yet shot down any enemy aircraft, and Boelcke allowed him to attack the inferior British aircraft. A spirited flight ensued, with Morris flying a desperate evasive action, while Tom steadily defended them by firing his Lewis Gun at the German. As Morris turned the aircraft away to head back to British lines, the German attacked again, firing bullets into the two men. He reported seeing Tom slump in his seat, and followed the stricken aircraft down to Flesquieres airfield, where Morris managed to land. Tom’s body was pulled from the aircraft, and Morris, badly wounded, was put into an ambulance which raced off to Cambrai. Morris died before the ambulance could reach Cambrai, and so he is buried at Port-De-Paris Cemetery, Cambrai. Tom was 21 years old, and is buried at Villers-Plouich Communal Cemetery, France. Both men had unknowingly just become the first victims of Baron Manfred von Richtofen, who was to become more famously known as the Red Baron. Richtofen would shoot down a further 79 aircraft, before being killed himself.

Tom Roberts, Lieutenant, Cheshire Regiment. Tom was the son of John Wells and Caroline Martha Roberts, of Swansea Road Nurseries, Llanelli. Tom was educated at Aberystwyth, and became a teacher in London prior to the war. He gained a commission into the 3rd Battalion, Cheshire Regiment, and was sent to France in March 1915, joining the 2nd Battalion, Cheshire Regiment at Ypres on 21 March. He was gassed during the Battle of Bellewaarde on 24 May 1915. Instead of remaining at the Aid Post, he returned to lead his men in the defence of a heavy German attack on their positions, and was shot in the chest and leg and killed that same day. Tom was 22 years old, and is buried at Bedford House Cemetery, Belgium. He left behind a rich legacy of information in letters which he had sent to his parents, describing his experiences during his short time at the front.

Francis Roderick B.A, Lieutenant, Welsh Regiment. Francis was the son of David and Elizabeth Roderick, of Cwmcerig Fach, Cefneithin. He was commissioned into the Welsh Regiment, serving as a Lieutenant in the 14th (Swansea) Battalion, which formed part of the 114th Brigade, 38th Welsh Division. Francis survived the Battalions massacre on the Somme, where the entire Welsh Division suffered terrible casualties at Mametz Wood, but he was with the Battalion when it was ordered to Ypres. At Ypres, the 38th Welsh Division took a major role in the capture of the Pilckem Ridge, where the famous poet Hedd Wyn was killed. Francis was seriously wounded, and died on 31 July 1917, aged 22. He is buried in Bard Cottage Cemetery, Belgium.

Ivan Arthur Lloyd Thomas, Second Lieutenant, Machine Gun Corps. Ivan was born at Llangadog, Carmarthenshire on 14 January 1887, the son of Enoch and Mariah Thomas. The family later resided at Bronllys, near, Newcastle Emlyn. Ivan was educated at Aberystwyth University and served for three years with the University OTC before becoming a teacher in Canada prior to the war. He enlisted at Montreal on 16 September 1915 into the Canadian Expeditionary Force and soon after arriving in England was commissioned on 25 October 1916 into the Machine Gun Corps. Ivan was posted to their 142nd Company, which was attached to the 47th (2nd London) Division. The Division was north of Arras when the Germans attacked Vimy Ridge, and then moved south to the Somme, where they fought at the Battle of Flers-Courcelette, and then at the Battle of Le Transloy, where the Division captured Eaucourt l’Abbe, and took part in Attacks on the Butte de Warlencourt. Early in 1917 the Division moved north to Belgium. Ivan was killed in action at Ypres on 10 May 1917. He was 30 years old, and is buried at Bedford House Cemetery, Belgium.

Thomas Thomas, Captain, Welsh Regiment. Thomas was originally from Cardigan, the son of John and Mary Ann Thomas. The family later resided at Stradey House, Llwynhendy, Llanelly. Thomas was in University at Aberystwyth when he was commissioned into the 13th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, the 2nd Rhondda Battalion. The battalion was raised in August 1914, becoming attached to 114 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division the following year. In December 1915 the Division moved to France, and took the line near Fleurbaix, where it was initiated into trench warfare. In June 1916 the Division marched south to the Somme, where it took part in the famous capture of Mametz Wood between 7 to 11 July. It was then moved north, to positions on the Canal Bank at Boesinghe, where it remained for the next twelve months. On 31 July 1917 the Division launched an attack on the Pilckem Ridge, capturing their objectives, with heavy loss of life. After a brief rest, the 13th Welsh moved back into the line on the Steenbeek, and it was here, on 23 August 1917, that Thomas was killed by German shellfire. He was 24 years old, and is buried at Bard Cottage Cemetery, Belgium.

Gwilym Williams, Second Lieutenant, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Gwilym was born on 18 March 1890, the son of William and Esther Williams, of Nantyraf, Mydrim. He was educated at Carmarthen Grammar School and at Aberystwyth University before becoming assistant Master at Queen Mary’s Grammar School, Walsall. In August 1915 Gwilym was commissioned into the 17th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. The battalion moved to France during December 1915 attached to 115 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division, and took up positions around Fleurbaix, to gain experience. The Division arrived in France in December 1915, and were posted near Armentieres, where they were familiarised with trench warfare. Gwilym joined the battalion at Fauquissart on 24 April 1916. He was in the front line on 20 May 1916 when he was wounded by a German rifle grenade, and was brought to the Hospital at Merville, where he died the following day, on 21 May 1916. Gwilym was 26 years old, and is buried at Merville Communal Cemetery, France. He was a well known Bard, having won four Bardic chairs.

Philip Mortlock Young, MID, Lieutenant, King’s Liverpool Regiment. Philip was the son of William and Abbie Jane Young, of Elim, Westbere, Canterbury. He was commissioned into the 3rd Battalion, King’s Liverpool Regiment, and was posted to France at the outbreak of war with the 1st Battalion, King’s Liverpool Regiment, which was attached to 6 Brigade, 2nd Division. The Division fought at the Battle of Mons, and retreating southwards, fought at the Affair of Landrecies, the Rearguard Actions of Villers-Cotterets, and at the Battle of the Marne where the German offensive was stopped. The Germans retreated north, and the BEF met them, fighting at the Battle of the Aisne. The 2nd Division was then moved to Flanders, where it fought at the First Battle of Ypres, remaining there throughout the first winter of the war. In 1915 they took part in the Battle of Festubert, and it was there, on 10 March 1915, that Philip was killed. He was 23 years old, and is commemorated on the Le Touret Memorial, Richebourg L’Avoue, France. The photograph of Philip is courtesy of Declan Vosser, of Aberystwyth University.