Carmarthen County War Memorial - Carmarthenshire War Heroes

Military Awards for Bravery

The Victoria Cross (VC) is the highest military decoration which is, or has been, awarded for valour "in the face of the enemy" to members of the armed forces of various Commonwealth countries, and previous British Empire territories. It takes precedence over all other orders, decorations and medals. It may be awarded to a person of any rank in any service and civilians under military command. It is usually presented to the recipient, or their next of kin, by the British monarch during an investiture held at Buckingham Palace, or by the Governor-General for awards made by other Commonwealth countries. It is the joint highest award for bravery in the United Kingdom with the George Cross, which is the equivalent honour for valour not in the face of the enemy.

The Distinguished Service Order (DSO) was instituted on 6 September 1886 by Queen Victoria in a Royal Warrant published in the London Gazette on 9 November. The first awards were dated 25 November 1886. It is typically awarded to officers ranked Major (or its equivalent) or higher, but the honour has sometimes been awarded to especially valorous junior officers. 8,981 DSOs were awarded during World War I, each award being announced in the London Gazette. The order was established for rewarding individual instances of meritorious or distinguished service in war. It was a military order, until recently for officers only, and normally given for service under fire or under conditions equivalent to service in actual combat with the enemy, although it was awarded between 1914 and 1916 under circumstances which could not be regarded as under fire (often to staff officers, which caused resentment among front-line officers). After 1 January 1917, commanders in the field were instructed to recommend this award only for those serving under fire. Prior to 1943, the order could be given only to someone Mentioned in Despatches. The order is generally given to officers in command, above the rank of Captain. A number of more junior officers were awarded the DSO, and this was often regarded as an acknowledgement that the officer had only just missed out on the award of the Victoria Cross.

The Military Cross (MC) was instituted in 1914 for commissioned officers of the substantive rank of Captain or below and for Warrant Officers for "an act or acts of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy on land to all members, of any rank …".

The Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) was instituted in 1854, during the Crimean War, to recognise gallantry within the other ranks. The medal was the other ranks' equivalent of the Distinguished Service Order when awarded for bravery to commissioned officers, although it ranked well below that order in precedence. Many holders of the DCM were originally recommended for the VC, but had their recommendations downgraded.

The Military Medal (MM) was established on 25 March 1916. It was the other ranks' equivalent to the Military Cross, which was awarded to commissioned officers and Warrant Officers (although WOs could also be awarded the MM), although it took precedence below that decoration as well as the Distinguished Conduct Medal, also awarded to non-commissioned members of the Army. Recipients of the Military Medal are entitled to use the post-nominal letters "MM".

The Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) was first instituted for the British Army in 1845. To be awarded the MSM, an individual must have "good, faithful, valuable and meritorious service, with conduct judged to be irreproachable throughout". Other ranks must have at least twenty years service, must already hold a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, and for the Army and the Royal Air Force must have reached the equivalent rank of sergeant. Officers of any service can also be considered for the medal immediately after being commissioned, provided they meet the other criteria, but not later.

THE VICTORIA CROSS

Lieutenant-General Sir James Hills-Johnes, Bengal Horse Artillery (Dolaucothi)

Gazetted 24 April 1858

Sir James Hills was born on 20 August 1833, the son of James Hills, of Neechindipore, Bengal, India, and Charlotte, daughter of Angelo Savi. He was educated at the Edinburgh Academy and Addiscombe, before gaining a commission into the Bengal Artillery in 1853. James fought during several battles in India, alongside the wel known Lord Roberts, gaining a name for his bravery in over thirty separate actions. During the Siege of Delhi, James was employed on a picket in command of two artillery guns, when he received an order to advance under escort of 80 cavalrymen. The column was surprised by a large force of the enemy, and James was left alone in front of his un-limbered guns, when the cavalry veered off. Without a thought to his own safety, James charged alone into the crowded enemy troops, firing his revolver into the mass, but was knocked down by horsemen, and slashed with a sabre from behind. James was rescued by a Captain Tombs, and for this gallant action, both men were awarded the Victoria Cross for saving the guns. The London Gazette entry for the awards stated;

'On 9th July 1857, at the Siege of Delhi, India, Second Lieutenant Hills most gallantly defended the position assigned to him when attacked by enemy cavalry. Single-handed he charged the head of the enemy's column and fought fiercely: continuing on foot after he and his horse had been ridden down. He was about to be killed with his own sword which one of the enemy had wrested from him, when his senior officer (H Tombs. (Reg. No. 1218) ) saw what was happening and twice in a short space of time came to a rescue of his subaltern.'

James recovered swiftly from his wounds, and fought at the Siege of Lucknow, again alongside Lord Roberts. He then fought in the Abyssynian and Afghanistan campaigns, earning himself several awards and mentions in despatches, including the C.B. and K.C.B. After a long career, he retired with the rank of Lieutenant-General, after marrying Charlotte Johnes, the daughter of John Johnes, of the Dolaucothi Estate, and assumed the surname of Hills-Johnes. James set up home with his new wife at Dolaucothi where he lived for the rest of his life, taking up a post as Honorary Colonel of the 4th Welsh, and playing an important part in recruitment in Carmarthenshire during the Great War.

James died aged 85, on 3 January 1919 and is buried in Caio Churchyard. His medals, the Victoria Cross, Knight Grand Cross, Order of the Bath ( GCB ), Indian Mutiny Medal ( 1857-58 ) with 2 clasps: "Delhi" - "Lucknow", Abyssinian War Medal ( 1867-68 ), India General Service Medal ( 1854-95 ) with 1 clasp: "Looshai", and his Afghanistan Medal ( 1878-80 ) with 2 clasps: "Kabul" - "Charasia" are on display at the Museum of the Royal Artillery, Woolwich.

Lieutenant Henry James Raby, Royal Navy (Llanelly)

Gazetted 24 February 1857.

Photo Courtsey of the Royal Naval Museum, Portsmouth

Henry was born on 26 September, 1827 at Boulogne, France, and was the son of the son of Arthur Turnour Raby, of Llanelli. He was educated at Sherborne School, before entering the Royal Navy in 1842 when he joined HMS Monarch. In 1848 he was on Mates rate, being promoted to Lieutenant in 1850. He served aboard HMS Wasp on Africa's West Coast until 1854 when the Crimean War began, and was sent to the Black Sea, where he fought in the trenches from 23 October 1854 to 16 September 1855. It was as second-in-command of a ladder party on the Redan, that he won his Victoria Cross. His citation read;

'After the assault on Sebastopol on 18th June 1855, a soldier of the 57th Regiment, who had been shot in both legs, was seen calling for assistance. Commander RABY and two other men, Captain of the Forecastle John Taylor and Boatswain's Mate Henry CURTIS, climbed over the breastwork, all three then proceeding the 70 yards across the open space, all the time under continuous heavy fire from the enemy, making their way towards the salient angle of the Redan. They succeeded in getting the wounded man to a place of safety, all the time under the imminent risk of losing their own lives.'

Henry was the first person ever to receive the Victoria Cross at an Investiture on Hyde Park on 26 June 1857, when he was presented with the award by Her Majesty Queen Victoria. (He was not the first person to be awarded the VC, that honour going to Mate Charles Davis Lucas). He was also made a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB). He also held the Legion d'Honneur of France, the Order of Medjidie, the Crimean, Sardinian and Turkish Medals with Clasps for Sebastopol and Inkerman. His medals are on display at the Royal Naval Museum, Portsmouth.

Henry eventually retired from the Royal Navy as Rear Admiral, and died on 13 February 1907 at his home, 8, Clarence Parade, Southsea, Hampshire. There are memorials on his grave at Highland Road Cemetery, Portsmouth, Hampshire and in the Town Hall, Llanelli.

Bombardier Jacob Thomas, Bengal Artillery (Llanwinio)

Gazetted on 24 December, 1858

Jacob was born in 1833 at Llanwinio, Carmarthenshire. He enlisted into the Army, and was serving in India with the Bengal Artillery, when he won his Victoria Cross. The citation for his award read;

'At Lucknow, India, on the 27th September, 1857, when the party, to which Bombardier Thomas was attached, was returning to the Residency, after a sortie, the Bombardier, under extremely considerable difficulty, brought in, on his back, a wounded soldier of the Madras Fusiliers, thus saving him from falling into the hands of the rebels.'

Jacob died in Darjeeling, India on 3 March 1911, and is buried in an unmarked grave at Bandel Churchyard, Hooghly, Darjeeling, India. His medals are in the custody of the Royal Artillery Museum, Woolwich.

Lance Corporal William Charles Fuller, 433, 2nd Battalion, Welsh Regiment (Laugharne)

Gazetted 23 November 1914

William was born in Newbridge Road, Laugharne on the 24th March, 1884, the son of William and Mary Fuller of Laugharne. As happened a lot at the time, William and Mary moved with their young family to Swansea, where William senior worked in Swansea Docks. William junior joined the Army in 1902, serving in the Boer War with the Welsh Regiment. He was recalled from the Reserve in August 1914, and went to France with the 2nd Welsh, where he won his Victoria Cross for saving Capt ain Mark Haggard who had fallen wounded during an attack on Chivy Ridge. William carried him a distance estimated at 100 yards to a ridge where he managed to dress the officer's wounds. Capt Haggard asked William to fetch his rifle from where he'd fell, as he didn't want the enemy to get it, and William managed to do this.

With the help of two others, Private Snooks and Lieutenant Melvin, Officer i/c the machine-gun section of the Welch Regiment, they managed to get Haggard to the safety of a barn that was being used as a First-Aid dressing station. William remained with Captain Haggard trying to help him until the officer Died on later that evening. His last words to Fuller were "Stick it, Welch." After Haggard died, William attended to two other officers who had also been brought to the barn wounded. (Lt. the Hon Fitzroy Somerset and Lt. Richards.)

The barn came under heavy fire and the wounded men and officers were evacuated. Later it was raised to the ground with shell-fire. On the 29th of October William was wounded whilst dressing the wounds of Private Tagge, a fellow soldier. Shrapnel entered his right side, twelve inches in up to his shoulder blade and came to rest on his right lung. After being evacuated from Ypres, he was sent to the United Kingdom, to Swansea Hospital where they operated, removing the shrapnel. The London Gazette Citation of 23 November, 1914 reads:

'For conspicuous gallantry on 14th September 1914 near Chivy on the Aisne, by advancing about 100 yards to pick up Captain Haggard, who was mortally wounded, and carrying him back to cover under very heavy rifle and machine gun fire.'

William was given a home posting, after his recovery, as a recruiting Sergeant in Wales for the duration of the Great War. He was awarded the Royal Humane Society for Lifesaving after the war, for attempting to save a child from drowning at Mumbles, and during WW2 he served in the Swansea Home Guard. After his death, aged 90, on 29th December 1974, William Fuller was buried in Oystermouth Cemetery, Mumbles.

Major John Vaughan Campbell VC CMG DSO, 3rd Battalion, Coldstream Guards

Gazetted 26 October 1916

John Vaughan Campbell was born in London on 31 October 1876, the son of Captain Ronald Campbell, brother of Earl Cawdor of Stackpole and Golden Grove. Captain Ronald Campbell, was killed in the Zulu Wars in 1879 whilst committing an act of gallantry that would have almost certainly won him the Victoria Cross if posthumous awards had then been allowed. John was commissioned into the Coldstream Guards on 5 September 1896, following his father's military tradition, and served in the Boer War where he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order, and was Mentioned in Dispatches twice. He went to France with the 3rd Battalion, Coldstream Guards after the outbreak of the Great War, and he was awarded the Victoria Cross for his gallantry during the Battle of the Somme, at Ginchy on 15 September 1916. The Citation for his Victoria Cross, listed in the London Gazette of 26 October 1916, read;

'For most conspicuous bravery and leading in an attack. Seeing that the first waves of his battalion had been decimated by machine gun and rifle fire he took personal command of the third line, rallied his men with the utmost gallantry, and led them against the enemy machine guns, capturing the guns and killing the personnel. Later in the day, after consultation with other unit commanders, he again rallied the survivors of this battalion, and at a critical moment led them through a very hostile fire barrage against the objective. He was on of the first to enter the enemy trench. His personal gallantry and initiative at a very critical moment turned the fortunes of the day and enabled his division to press on and capture objectives of the highest tactical importance.'

John was later promoted to Brevet Colonel and Aide de Camp to The King in June 1919. John was the Regimental Lieutenant Colonel Commanding the Regiment between 1923 and 1927, and he retired on 31 October 1933. He was a member of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms from 1934 to 1944, and during the Second World War he commanded the 8th Battalion, Gloucestershire Home Guard until his death on 22 May 1944. His only son, Captain J R Campbell was killed whilst serving with the Regiment in France in 1940.

Ivor Rees (Reg. No. 1032). Sergeant, 11th Battalion, South Wales Borderers. (Llanelly)

Gazetted 14 September 1917

Ivor was born on 18 October 1893 at Felinfoel, near Llanelli. He enlisted into the 11th, SWB, part of 115 Brigade, 38th Welsh Division. He survived the terrible fighting at Mametz Wood, and moved with the Division to Ypres, where they took up positions on the Canal Bank, near Boesinghe. At Ypres, the 38th (Welsh) Division was tasked with the capture of the Pilckem Ridge-a heavily fortified German defensive line.The award of the Victoria Cross to Ivor Rees was Gazetted on 14 September 1917, and read;

'At Pilckem, Belgium, on 31st July 1917, an enemy machine gun inflicted many casualties when it opened fire at close range. Sergeant Rees, leading his platoon, gradually worked his way round the right flank, by making short rushes, to the rear of the gun position. At 20 yards from the machine gun, Sergeant Rees rushed forward towards it, shooting one of the crew, and bayoneting the other. He bombed a large concrete emplacement, killing five of the enemy and taking 30 prisoners, including two officers and capturing a machine gun, undamaged.'

In the Second World War, Ivor served as a Sergeant-Major in the Home Guard. He died on 12 March 1967 at Llanelli, where he was buried, and is remembered on Memorials in Havard Chapel, Brecon Cathedral and at Llanelli Town Hall, Carmarthenshire.

AWARDS TO OTHER EXCEPTIONAL MEN

James Ira Thomas 'Taffy' Jones, Captain, Royal Flying Corps. (St. Clears)

Ira Jones was born on 18 April, 1896 at Woolstone, Llanddowror-near St. Clears, Carmarthenshire. He was a plucky character, joining the Territorials-the 4th Welsh- in 1913. At the outbreak of war in 1914, Ira was in London-studying Wireless and Cable Telegraphy. He waited for the call to arms, but it never came, and so-feeling very frustrated-he decided to join the fledgling Royal Flying Corps. It was now June 1915. After training at Farnborough, Ira was posted to No. 10 Squadron at Netheravon. He was commissioned in August 1917, and after a stint as an air gunner/ observer, was sent to England to commence Pilot Training, before being posted to the famous 74 Squadron, led by 'Mick' Mannock, and it was with them that he earned his impressive array of medals. Ira won the Military Medal in September 1916, by rescuing five wounded gunners, whilst he was working as groundcrew. Next Ira was awarded The Russian Order of St. George's Cross, in January 1917, after receiving several commendations for bravery. His Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) (London Gazette dated 3 August, 1918) was awarded for "In eleven days this officer attacked and destroyed six enemy aeroplanes, displaying great courage, skill and initiative." Next came the Military Cross (MC). The citation in the London Gazette of 16 September, 1918 read-

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This officer, one of an offensive patrol, engaged and shot down in flames a two-seater, which fell to earth. Ten days later, on offensive patrol, he shot down a Hannover two-seater, which crashed. The next day, when patrolling, he pursued, overtook and shot down an Albatross two-seater. During the same flight he met a Halberstadt two-seater and killed the observer, who either jumped or fell overboard, but had to break off as his ammunition was finished. The next day he shot a balloon down in flames. Three days later he got a good burst with both guns on a Pfalz scout, both wings coming off. He has driven two others down out of control."

Ira then won a Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). The London Gazette Citation dated 21 September, 1918 read-

"A gallant officer who in the last three months has destroyed twenty-one enemy aeroplanes. On one occasion he attacked a Halberstadt two-seater, which was escorted by two scouts. On his approach the scouts deserted the two-seater, which he shot down in flames. He then pursued the two scouts, one of which he destroyed."

Next he was to gain the Distinguished Service Order (DSO). The London Gazette citation dated 2 November, 1918 read-

"Since joining his present Brigade in May last this officer has destroyed twenty-eight enemy machines. He combines skilful tactics and marksmanship with high courage. While engaged on wireless interception duty he followed a patrol of nine Fokker biplanes, and succeeded in joining their formation unobserved. After a while two Fokkers left the formation to attack one of our artillery observation machines. Following them, Captain Jones engaged the higher of the two, which fell on its companion, and both machines fell interlocked in flames."

Ira Jones had a reputation of having an unfortunate habit of crashing aircraft when attempting to land. This may have stemmed from poor depth perception. Despite his vision problems, he scored 37 victories in just 3 months whilst serving with 74 Squadron in France.

"It is wonderful how cheered a pilot becomes after he shoots down his first machine; his morale increases by at least 100 percent." Ira Jones.

Ira Jones finished the war with 37 confirmed victories, being the highest scoring Welsh Pilot of the war, and became the joint 17th highest scoring Allied Fighter Pilot, scoring more kills than aces such as the great Leutnant Karl Allmenroder of Germany, and the great English Pilot, Captain Albert Ball V.C. He went on to fly again on operational flights in 1939 (without authorisation!), when the German Blitzkrieg swept through France. He was transferred to ground duties, taking command of R.A.F. Tern Hill in Shropshire. He died at Aberaeron on 30 August, 1960, and is buried near Bancyfelin, Carmarthen. Ira is remembered by an impressive memorial in St. Clears, next to the Town War Memorial, which he had the honour of unveiling.

The Aerial Victories of Ira 'Taffy' Jones

	Date	Time	Unit	Aircraft	Opponent	Location
1	08 May 1918	1825	74	S.E.5a (C6406)	C (DESF)	Bailleul-Nieppe
2	12 May 1918	1822	74	S.E.5a (C6406)	Albatros D.V (OOC)	N of Wulverghem
3	17 May 1918	0930	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Hannover C (DESF)	Merville-Estaires
4	17 May 1918	0930	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Albatros C (OOC)	Merville
5	18 May 1918	1250	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Albatros C (DESF)	Nieppe
6	19 May 1918	1655	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Balloon (DES)	NW of Armentières
7	22 May 1918	1245	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Pfalz D.III (DESF)	Quesnoy
8	22 May 1918	1815	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Pfalz D.III (OOC)	Fromelles
9	26 May 1918	1955	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Pfalz D.III (DES)	N of Armentières
10	27 May 1918	1100	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Albatros C (DES)	NE of Nieppe Forest
11	27 May 1918	1130	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Halberstadt C (OOC)	Neuf Berquin
12	30 May 1918	1505	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	LVG C (DES)	E of Bailleul
13	30 May 1918	2035	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Halberstadt C (DES)	SE of Bois du Beiz
14	31 May 1918	1910	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Pfalz D.III (DES)	Ploegsteert Wood
15	31 May 1918	1945	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Pfalz D.III (OOC)	Comines
16	01 Jun 1918	0740	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	Pfalz D.III (DES)	E of Dickebusch Lake
17	18 Jun 1918	1230	74	S.E.5a (C1117)	DFW C (DES)	N of Bailleul
18	21 Jun 1918	2015	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	LVG C (DESF)	Ploegsteert Wood
19	25 Jun 1918	1215	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	Halberstadt C (DESF)	Steenwerck
20	25 Jun 1918	1230	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	Fokker D.VII (DES)	Estaires
21	27 Jun 1918	1130	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	Hannover C (DESF)	La Couture
22	29 Jun 1918	1945	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	Fokker D.VII (DES)	Comines
23	01 Jul 1918	1350	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	Rumpler C (DES)	Tourcoing
24	24 Jul 1918	0720	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	DFW C (DES)	Merville
25	24 Jul 1918	1720	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	DFW C (DESF)	Merville
26	24 Jul 1918	1730	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	DFW C (OOC)	E of Kemmel
27	25 Jul 1918	1105	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	DFW C (DESF)	SE of Neuve Eglise
28	26 Jul 1918	0515	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	DFW C (DES)	W of Bailleul
29	30 Jul 1918	1210	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	Rumpler C (DESF) 1	Cassell-Ypres
30	30 Jul 1918	1230	74	S.E.5a (D6895)	LVG C (DES)	Merville
31	30 Jul 1918	1750	74	S.E.5a (D6938)	Fokker D.VII (OOC)	E of Armentières
32	03 Aug 1918	1940	74	S.E.5a (E5967)	LVG C (DES)	SE of Merville
33	04 Aug 1918	1710	74	S.E.5a (D6958)	Hannover C (DES)	W of Estaires
34	06 Aug 1918	0750	74	S.E.5a (D6958)	Fokker D.VII (DESF)	Sailly sur la Lys
35	06 Aug 1918	0750	74	S.E.5a (D6958)	Fokker D.VII (DESF)	Sailly sur la Lys
36	07 Aug 1918	1225	74	S.E.5a (D6958)	LVG C (DES)	SE of Estaires
37	07 Aug 1918	1715	74	S.E.5a (D6958)	C (DES)	E of Houthoulst Forest

Captain Parcell Rees Bowen, MC, DFC & Bar, Welsh Regiment & Royal Air Force. (Abergwili)

Parcell was a true hero. His full story is told on the Abergwili page of this site, but his awards are listed here. Parcell's first award was the Military Cross, which was listed in the London Gazette of 16 August, 1917;

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He displayed great gallantry and skill in handling his guns under very trying conditions, and behaving with great resource and initiative in outflanking a house used as divisional headquarters and compelling the inmates to surrender.'

Parcell then transferred into the Royal Air Force on 10 January, 1918, becoming an Observer. He gained his decoration of the Distinguished Flying Cross during the air war in Egypt, the citation in the London Gazette of 8 February 1919 read;

'These officers have displayed marked courage and determination on many occasions. On 22 September they carried out an excellent reconnaissance under difficult conditions, the clouds being very low over the hills, bringing back most valuable information.'

After the Armistice on 11 November, 1918, Parcell served in Salonika and Mesopotamia, before being placed on the unemployed list. Again though, Parcell wanted more adventure, and so he volunteered for further service with the R.A.F. in their private war in North Russia, fighting for the White Russians.

On 17 July, 1919 Parcell arrived at Archangel, where he met his old compatriot from Carmarthen, Ira Taffy Jones. In Ira Jones's book, 'An Airfighter's Scrapbook', Ira writes glowing reports of Parcell, being glad to see another Welsh Warrior in his Squadron. A long passage from the book tells of an incident that earned Parcell a Bar to his Distinguished Flying Cross. In short, Parcell and his Pilot were carrying out a bombing mission when they came across a superior force of Russian Aeroplanes. Being the men they were, they agreed to attack the Russians, who dispersed in chaos when these two madmen plunged into their midst. The Russians took flight, but one fired a burst of rounds at the British pair, and Parcell and his Pilot were hit. The Pilot fainted at the controls of the aeroplane, and Parcell only had one good arm, but he leaned over his colleague and piloted the aeroplane back nearly 100 miles to base. This brave episode resulted in the award of a Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross for Parcell.

Parcell was sent home wounded, and again placed on the Unemployed List, so volunteered for a Commission into the Lithuanian Army, with whom he served until July, 1920 when he accepted a Government Post. This post was Top Secret, and involved him going undercover in Dublin, at the time when the troubles were at a peak. Due to the secrecy of the work being carried out in Ireland, nothing much is known about the operations Parcell was engaged in, but on 'Bloody Sunday', November 21st, 1920, 14 British Agents were murdered in Dublin by the I.R.A., led by Michael Collins. The British Army reprised the killings by storming into a Gaelic Football match at Croke Park in Dublin, and fired into the crowd to avenge their murdered colleagues, inflicting many casualties, and 14 men and children dead. Later that night, three IRA prisoners suspiciously died in captivity in Dublin Castle, and the situation swiftly escalated. The Irish Public quickly turned against the Crown, and Peace negotiations ensued, resulting in a truce being declared on 11 July 1921. For some reason though, this did not prevent the assassination of the undercover Captain Parcell Bowen. On 27 October, 1921, his lifeless body was found lying face-down in Herrion Street, Dublin. Parcell had been lodging with a fellow Officer at 28, Upper Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin, and the two had spent the afternoon watching a football match at Donnybrook. After the match, Parcell could not be found, until he was discovered at Herrion Street. His body was brought back to Carmarthen, where Captain Parcell Rees Bowen was buried with full military honours in Abergwili Churchyard.

OTHER AWARDS TO CARMARTHENSHIRE MEN

AWARDED THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE ORDER;

The Honorable Eric Octavius Campbell, DSO & Bar, Lieutenant-Colonel, 8th Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders. (Golden Grove)

Eric's first award was awarded in the London Gazette of 23 March 1915. He gained a Bar to his Distinguished Service Order in 1918, and was also Mentioned in Despatched twice. Sadly Eric had been invalided home, and died on 4 June, 1918. He is buried at Stackpole Elidor Churchyard, in the Cawdor plot.

Lieutenant-Colonel David Brynmor Chiles-Evans, DSO, M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., Royal Army Medical Corps. (Burry Port)

David's award was listed in the London Gazette of 3 June 1916. There is no citation. He was killed on 23 April, 1917, and is buried at Bethune Town Cemetery, France.

Major John Francis, DSO, Welsh Field Company, Royal Engineers.

John was the son of John Francis, of Myrtle Hill, Carmarthen, and was a principal partner with John Francis & Sons, Carmarthen. He served with the Welsh Field Company, Royal Engineers throughout their campaign on Gallipoli, and also in Egypt and Palestine, and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order, and Mentioned in Despatches during his time at war.

Major William Lyttleton Lawrence, DSO, 1st Battalion, South Wales Borderers. (Carmarthenshire)

William's award was listed in the London Gazette of 8 December 1914, and read;

'For gallantry and ability in repelling the enemy on 26th September.'

William was killed during the Battle of Gheluveld, on 31 October 1914. He is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Belgium.

Captain Rowland P. Lewis, DSO, Royal Army Medical Corps. (Laugharne)

Rowland's award was listed in the London Gazette of 31 May 1918. There is no citation.

Major Ernald Richardson, DSO. (Llandeilo)

Ernald was the son of Colonel John Crow Richardson, of Glanbrydan Park, Llandeilo. He was gazetted Lieutenant into the Carmarthen Royal Garrison Artillery on 24 February 1900, and was later former Commander of the 3rd Glamorgan Volunteer Rifles, and The Welshman newspaper announced his award of the Distinguished Service Order, but at the moment no other details are presently available.

Major James Wightman, DSO, MC, 8th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. (Carmarthen)

James was awarded the Distinguished Service Order, which was announced in the London Gazette of 31 May 1918. By the time of the German Spring Offensives of 1918, James was a Major, and he was killed during the Battle of St. Quentin on 9 April 1918. He is buried at Picquigny British Cemetery, France.

AWARDED THE MILITARY CROSS

Captain David Guy Davies, MC, 10th Battalion, Kings Royal Rifle Corps. (Llanelli)

David's award was listed in the London Gazette of 14 November 1916, and read;

'For conspicuous gallantry in action. On three occasions he went forward into our own barrage, and brought back some of his men who had pushed too far forward. Later, he re-organised his company to complete their task.'

He was killed not long after, during the German retreat to Hindenburg Line, on 4 April 1917, and is buried at Gouzeaucourt New British Cemetery.

Lieutenant-Colonel Arthur Evans, MC, Royal Engineers.

Arthur was the Mr and Mrs David Evans, of 22, Bridge Street, Carmarthen. He was in command of the military railways, telegrams and telephones in Palestine, and was awarded the Military Cross for his work there. He was also awarded the Order of the Serbian White Eagle, and was Mentioned in Despatches three times.

Chaplain Geoffrey Maynard Evans, MC, Royal Army Chaplains Department. (Carmarthen)

Geoffrey's award was listed in the London Gazette of 1 June 1917. There was no citation. Sadly on 11 August 1917 he was killed by a shell at Westhoek Ridge, Ypres, and was buried at Bellewaarde Cemetery. His grave was later moved into Divisional Collecting Post Cemetery.

Major John Kenrick Lloyd Fitzwilliams, BA, MC, Royal Field Artillery. (Newcastle Emlyn)

John's award was listed in the London Gazette of 14 November 1916, and read;

'For conspicuous gallantry in action. During the attack and capture of an enemy position he observed the fire of his battery from the infantry front line, often under heavy shell fire. Throughout the day he sent back most accurate and .valuable information. He has proved himself a gallant and capable battery commander.'

John was killed in action on 30 August, 1918 during the Advance on the Hindenburg Line . He was 33 years old, and is buried at Vis-En-Artois British Cemetery, Haucourt. John was also the holder of the Order of St Stanislaus, 2nd Class (Russia).

Major Henry Percy Bright Gough, MC & Bar, 17th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llanelly)

Harry's first Military Cross was listed in the London Gazette of 24 July 1917, and read;

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has done splendid work when in charge of parties recovering mines. He was also instrumental in rescuing eight men from a demolished cellar. This work was accomplished under heavy fire, and occupied several hours.'

He was awarded a Bar to his MC for his actions at Bourlon Wood, the citation, dated 1 February 1918, read;

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He led his company in the most gallant manner, and was largely responsible for the success of the operations. He set a splendid example to his men.'

Henry was seriously wounded on 22 April 1918 at Strazeele, and died at the 62nd London Casualty Clearing Station that day. He is buried at Arneke British Cemetery, France.

Captain David Lloyd Popkin Morgan, MC, 24th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llandovery College)

David's award was listed in the London Gazette of 2 July 1918, and read;

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When a gap occurred in the line after the capture of an enemy position he made repeated journeys over a fire-swept zone carrying information and keeping in close touch with the situation. By his initiative and coolness he was largely responsible for driving back an enemy counter-attack.'

In February 1918, David's Company was given the honour of guarding the Holy Sepulchre at Jerusalem. Sadly, David was killed soon after, when his Battalion was ordered into a night attack on a hill at Selwad on 9 March, 1918. He is buried at Jerusalem War Cemetery.

Lieutenant Augustus Charles Owen, MC, 8th Battalion, Somerset Light Infantry. (Llandovery College)

Augustus' award was listed in the London Gazette of 16th September 1918, and read;

"At a critical moment, he held his position with a small party of men against an enemy attack delivered after a heavy bombardment. By his fine example of courage and determination, he enabled the line in that part of the field to be restored".

Augustus was killed in action on the Somme just a few months after, on 6 August 1918. He is buried at St. Amand British Cemetery, east of Doullens, France.

Lieutenant Robert Lloyd Peel, MC., Royal Field Artillery. (Taliaris)

Robert's award was listed in the London Gazette of 19 December 1916, and read;

'For conspicuous gallantry in action. He and a serjeant rescued several wounded men from a burning gun-pit, and thereby saved many lives. Later, he continued to extinguish the fire, and prevented an explosion of ammunition.'

Robert died of wounds sustained at Ypres on 3 September, 1917. He lies in Bard Cottage Cemetery, near Ypres.

Lieutenant Cecil Phillips, MC, 1/4th Battalion, the Welsh Regiment. (Llanelly)

Cecil's award was listed in the London Gazette of 13 September 1915, and read;

'For great gallantry in going out almost 70 yards under heavy shrapnel and rifle fire, and assisted by an N.C.O. bringing in a wounded officer to the covering of a trench, and again returning and bringing in 3 other wounded soldiers.'

The wounded officer was Captain Shenston of the Essex Regiment. This brave and selfless act also resulted in Cecil's deed being written into the book 'Deeds That Thrilled The Empire'. Below is an illustration from the book, showing Cecil's brave rescue.

Captain Rees Frederick Phillips, Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry. (Glanamman)

Rees’ award was listed in the London Gazette of 20 October 1916, and was for the Somme. It read;

‘For conspicuous gallantry during operations. He organised and directed carrying parties under heavy shell fire, and helped to bring back a badly wounded man.’

He survived the war, becoming a Major, but his son David was killed in Italy during the Second World War.

Lieutenant Harry Lawson Pickard, MC, 9th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Llanelly)

Harry's award was listed in the London Gazette of 14 February 1919, and read;

'For conspicuous gallantry, leadership and devotion to duty during an operation near the Bois de Biez on September 30th, 1918. During the attack he led his platoon with great dash, and though early wounded he continued at duty and remained in charge of the outpost line until his company was relieved 18 hours later. His fine conduct had an inspiring effect on his men.'

Harry was killed on 20 October 1918 during the Battle of the Selle, and is buried at St. Aubert British Cemetery, France.

Gwynedd William Llewellyn Pritchard, MC, Captain, 20th Battalion, Manchester Regiment. (Carmarthen)

Gwynedd's award was listed in the London Gazette of 7 March 1919, and read;

'On 8th October, 1918, during the advance on Sonia Farm, he displayed great gallantry and initiative in handling his company. Troops on the right having lost direction and a gap resulting, he made good first Bronx Farm and later .Foal Copse, the latter being strongly held by machine-guns, which would undoubtedly have held up the main advance on the left when it came to be proceeded with. He personally led his company in the attack on Foal Copse.'

Gwynedd was sadly killed in action soon after arriving back in France, during the Battle of the Selle on 23 October, 1918. He is buried at Pommereuil British Cemetery, France.

Lieutenant John Hywel Richards, MC, 6th Battalion, South Wales Borderers. (Carmarthen)

John's award was listed in the in the London Gazette of 8 January 1918, and read;

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty when in charge of a convoy. He went forward during a hostile counter-attack and reconnoitred the ground to find the best route for the animals through both the barrage and shell-holes, under heavy shell fire, through which he then led them without hesitation, sustaining only a few casualties. He successfully delivered the stores and ammunition which were urgently required. He has on several occasions shown remarkable initiative and great gallantry during similar journeys.'

John was mortally wounded during the German Spring Offensive on the Lys, and died of wounds on 19 April 1918. He is buried at Aire Communal Cemetery, France.

Lieutenant Rhys Ivor Thomas, MC, 1st Battalion, Connaught Rangers. (Carmarthen)

Rhys was awarded the Military Cross in the London Gazette of 29 September 1914. He was one of the first men to have ever gained this new award. Sadly he was killed during the Battle of the Aisne on 14 September 1914, and is buried at Vailly British Cemetery.

Second Lieutenant John David Vaughan, MC, 14th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Burry Port)

John's award was listed in the London Gazette of 9 January 1917;

'For conspicuous gallantry in action. He carried out a daring reconnaissance with great courage and determination, obtaining most valuable information.'

He was later wounded at Ypres, and died of wounds on 18 March 1917. He is buried at Ferme-Olivier Cemetery, Belgium.

Major James Wightman, DSO, MC, 8th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. (Carmarthen)

James's award of the Military Cross was listed in the London Gazette of 24 November 1916, and read;

'For conspicuous gallantry in action. He led a bombing party with great courage and determination, and repulsed the enemy. He acted as leading thrower, and threw bombs continuously for two hours. He has previously done fine work.'

By the time of the German Spring Offensives of 1918, James was a Major, and he was killed during the Battle of St. Quentin on 9 April 1918, aged 25. James is buried at Picquigny British Cemetery, France. James was also awarded the Distinguished Service Order, which was announced in the London Gazette of 31 May 1918.

Second Lieutenant William James Williams, MC, 16th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Llandovery College)

William's award was listed in the London Gazette of 8 January 1918, and read;

"rallied his men and kept them well in hand under heavy fire, showing a splendid example of steadfastness to his men throughout."

William was sadly killed in action at Armentières prior to the posting of the notice, on 19 September 1917, and is buried in Erquinghem Lys Churchyard Extension.

AWARDED THE DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDAL

355819, Sergeant Evan P. Davies, 25th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Newcastle Emlyn).

He has shown great gallantry and devotion to duty as Pioneer Serjeant, and his coolness under fire and in the line has been a fine example to all, with the result that his work has always been of the greatest value to the battalion. He has also done very fine work in training the battalion Pioneers. Further, his resource and energy have been invaluable in providing shelter and comfort for the men when in the line. (3.9. 19)

320156 Private John Davies 24th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Carmarthen)

For conspicuous gallantry in the advance on Orchard Post on 18th September 1918. With total disregard of personal safety he advanced and captured an enemy post, consisting of an officer and thirty men, who with three machine guns were holding up the advance. By his splendid action the line was materially aided in moving forward to its objective. (10.1.20)

320159 Sergeant David L. Evans 24th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Ammanford)

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. When the whole of a Lewis gun team became casualties, he fetched in the gun and spare parts under heavy fire organised a team, and got the gun into action again with great success. He showed splendid initiative and determination. (28.3.18) He was also the holder of the Territorial Force War Medal.

13183 Private William Evans, MM. 2nd Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Llangannock, Carmarthen).

For conspicuous gallantry during the attack from east of the Ancre to high Wood on 23rd—28th August 1918. Ho gave valuable assistance to his officer by keeping touch with all companies and reporting continually on the situation. While locating a company which had pushed forward he came across a complete enemy machine-gun crew. He killed one and captured the remainder, together with the gun. Next day, though wounded, he remained with his battalion and continued at his post throughout the whole of the operation he showed splendid courage and devotion to duty. (16.1.19)

26814 Private Charles Gibbard 9th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Kidwelly)

For conspicuous gallantry and initiative. When his platoon was heavily fired on by an enemy machine gun during an advance, he at once attacked the gun with bombs and captured it with nine of the crew. His prompt and determined action undoubtedly saved many casualties. (15.11.18)

265726 Serjeant David Griffiths 1/6th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llandebie)

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He went forward with runners to the assistance of a wire party under heavy shell fire. While returning the officer was wounded. Serjeant Griffiths dressed his wounds under continuous shell fire, and carried him to a dressing station a mile off. His behaviour was splendid. (3.9.18)

29403, Private David Idwal Griffiths, 2nd Battalion, South Wales Borderers. (Llangain)

For conspicuous gallantry and determined courage at Outersteene on 18th August 1918. When his platoon was held up by heavy machine gun fire, he and another man crept forward and rushed the post, capturing two machine guns, killing three enemy and taking five prisoners. After the objective was reached, these two worked forward and captured a sniper who was causing casualties during consolidation. (10.1.20) Sadly just weeks after this, David was wounded at Ypres. He died of his wounds on the 3rd October, 1918 aged just 20 and is buried at Ypres Reservoir Cemetery, Belgium.

Corporal J. Hughes, Royal Army Medical Corps. (Llanelli).

Corporal Hughes was from the Cambrian Hotel, Marine Street, Llanelli, and the Llanelly Mercury carried the news of his award of the Distinguished Conduct Medal, along with a photo of him. He won his medal at Messines in June 1917.

1728 Corporal William James, 8th Battalion, East Surrey Regiment. (Pontyberem)

William was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal during the war, although presently the details of it cannot be traced. He was killed in action on 4 April 1918 and is commemorated on the Pozieres Memorial, and was also the holder of the Military Medal.

20155, Sergeant William Thomas John, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llanelli)

On 20th October 1918, his platoon commander was killed whilst swimming the Selle. He at once took command, and on emerging from the river re-organised his platoon under heavy machine-gun fire, and led them forward, capturing a machine gun and crew, and turning the gun on the enemy. He then pushed forward again and captured two small enemy trench howitzers. He showed gallant leadership and did excellent work. (2/1/19). William was killed during the final battles around the Forest of Mormal, on 2 November 1918, and is buried at Forest Communal Cemetery.

54621 Private John Llewellyn Jones, 17th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Llanddeusant).

On 4th November l9l8, during the attack on Mormal Forest, the platoon to which he belonged was held up by the fire of three enemy machine guns. He stood up under heavy fire, and started to bomb one of the posts. As he rose his rifle was shattered in his hand by a bul1et and his ammunition pouch was also struck and became ignited. He threw off the blazing equipment and continued to throw bombs. He was successful in silencing the gun, but was badly wounded in so doing. His most gallant action enabled the platoon to advance and deal with the two remaining guns. (2.12.19)

16960 Corporal Thomas I. Jones, 13th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Henllan)

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an attack, when his officer was wounded, this NCO took charge of the platoon, and, capturing a machine gun that was holding up the advance, led the men on and gained the objective. On another occasion, when in charge of a section, he received the surrender of a party of the enemy whom he had isolated in a shell-hole. Some of those who had given themselves up began afterwards to throw bombs, but Serjeant Jones promptly dispatched several of them and saved the section from heavy casualties, he then took charge of half the company and arranged his posts with great ability, and was largely instrumental in defeating an enemy counter-attack the next morning. Throughout the operation he showed great coolness and presence of mind. (3.9. 18)

86350 Corporal David Edward Lewis, 170 Tunneling Company, Royal Engineers. (Meidrim)

For conspicuous gallantry in accompanying an officer into the enemy's trenches. They found an enemy mine shaft, exploded the galleries and blew in the entrance with a charge. (14.4.16). David was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal during his time at war, but at present the details cannot be traced. He was killed in action at Loos on 26 September 1917 and is buried at Noeux-Les-Mines Communal Cemetery Extension, France.

14582 Sergeant William Archibald Morris, 2nd Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Carmarthen)

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in action. By his fine leadership a sap was held against hostile attacks. Though wounded he remained throwing bombs for two hours. He has displayed great bravery on other occasions. (22.9.16). William was wounded during the German Offensive on the Lys, and was brought back to the UK for treatment at the 1st Southern General Military Hospital, Birmingham. He sadly died of wounds there on 2 May 1918, and is buried at Carmarthen (St. David) Churchyard.

9563 Sergeant James Northey, 2nd Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Burry Port)

For conspicuous gallantry when he went out four times over the front parapet under heavy rifle fire at about 150 yards range and successfully brought in four wounded men. (11.3.16). James was wounded on the Somme, and brought back to the Army Hospital at Merthyr, where he died of wounds on 8 October, 1916. He is buried at Merthyr Tydfil (Beech Grove) Cemetery.

200780 Sergeant James Alexander Orman, 1/4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Carmarthen)

For conspicuous gallantry on 9th August 1915, near Anzac, when, although wounded early in the day, he remained with his Company until dark, displaying great courage and resource. (10.3.16). James was killed in action during Operations in the Jordan Valley, on 9 March, 1918. He is buried in Jerusalem War Cemetery, Israel.

G/1147, Company Sergeant Major W. N. Reed, 7th Battalion, East Kent Regiment. (Carmarthen)

For conspicuously gallant conduct and devotion to duty during operations, 18th-25th September, 1918, near Ronssoy. He was buried by shell fire, and though badly shaken continued to carry on. On the 19th September he greatly assisted his company commander in reorganising the company, and later in the day voluntarily led forward a patrol towards the enemy positions, and was successful in finding out much valuable information, which he reported. His unfailing cheerfulness and courage throughout was of the highest value. (2.12.19). He was also the holder of the Military Medal.

12859, Sergeant Evan Rees, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Llanelly)

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during an enemy attack. When the enemy had broken through on both flanks, this NCO advanced his Lewis gun and carried on firing with great effect. He checked the enemy's advance on both sides and enabled his company to withdraw intact to the next line of defence. He did very fine work. (3.10.13)

320408 Sergeant Sydney Rees, 24th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, attended 231st Light Trench Mortar Battery. (Kidwelly)

On 19th September 1918, near Ronssoy, he collected all available men, and, by repeated journeys, kept up the supply of ammunition, thereby enabling the guns to put out of action an enemy machine gun which was holding up the advance. Two days later, in charge of a section, he got his guns into position under heavy shell fire. (11.3.20)

14226 Private Percy E. Roberts, 11th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Llanelli)

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He carried a wounded man over a very exposed and rocky spur for a distance of 300 yards under a very heavy shell and rifle fire. (24.11.16). The Llanelly Guardian published a story of Percy's award, together with the photograph below;

13695 Corporal Frederick Terrington, 1st Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Tycroes)

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in volunteering three times to go on patrol. He drove in a small enemy covering party and accurately located two machineguns, though under heavy fire, in daylight. Later, he brought in many wounded, and though himself wounded, refused to withdraw until ordered to do so. (26.3.18). He was accidentally killed while stationed on the Italian Front on 30 March 1918 and is buried at Padua Main Cemetery, Italy.

20485 Lance Corporal Moses Thomas, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llanelly)

For conspicuous gallantry in action. When his entire section was wiped out by concentrated shrapnel and machine-gun fire he continued alone to fire his Lewis gun and covered the withdrawal of his company. Later, during an attack, he killed sixteen of the enemy, firing his Lewis gun from the hip, thereby capturing two machine guns. He showed splendid courage and determination. (5.12.18)

56945 Private Thomas R. Wild, 13th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Kidwelly)

For conspicuous gallantry and initiative during an attack. Seeing an enemy machine gun causing heavy casualties, this man, who was a company runner, collected a few men and rushed the gun, capturing it and killing the team. Later he bayoneted two enemy snipers who were causing casualties to his company crossing a canal. He showed splendid courage and dash. (5.12.18)

200685 Company Sergeant Major H. Williams, 1/4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llanelly)

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in an advance. On reaching the enemy's position he collected a party of men, consolidated the position with great ability. He set a fine example of courage and coolness on this and many other occasions. (18.2.18)

320121 Sergeant W. Williams, 24th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Nantgaredig)

For gallant and able leadership on 7th September 1918, during the advance from Templeux la Fosse. When his company suffered heavy casualties from enemy barrage he reorganised two platoons, pushed on and obtained his objective. But for his initiative the line would have been held up. (11.3.20)

AWARDED THE MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL

WR/178798 Lance Corporal Victor James Cole, Railways Division, Royal Engineers. (Llanelly)

Victor was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his work on the Western front, but was wounded in 1918 and came home for treatment. He died of wounds on 27 September 1918, and is buried at Llanelli (Box) Cemetery.

61792 Regimental Serjeant Major Isaac Jones, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment (Attended South Lancashire Regiment). (Ammanford)

Isaac served at Mametz Wood with the 15th Welsh before being recalled to Britain to help train a new Battalion of the South Lancashire Regiment. He was awarded his Meritorious Service Medal for his work with new recruits in the King's Birthday Honours List of 3 June 1919.

320108 Quartermaster Sergeant John Lewis Jones, 24th Battalion, Welsh Regiment.

John's award was listed in the Peace Gazette of 18 January 1919. He was also the holder of the Territorial Force War Medal.

2904 Quarter Master Serjeant Richard J. Owen, Royal Engineers. (Carmarthen)

His award was listed in the London Gazette of 12 December, 1919.

12222, Corporal Dudley Ellison Taylor, 2nd Dragoon Guards. (Carmarthen)

Dudley was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal in the Gazette of 14 June 1918 for valuable services in France. He died of sickness on 10 November 1918 and is buried at Carmarthen Cemetery.

AWARDED THE MILITARY MEDAL

320256 Pte. William Beynon, 24th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Whitland).

William's award of the Military Medal was listed in the London Gazette of 19 March 1918.

20417 Private William J. Bellows, 9th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llanelli)

Williams award of the Military Medal was listed in the London Gazette of 4 December 1915, one of the earliest awards to the Welsh Regiment. He was Discharged Class Z on 24 February 1919.

45950 Richard Bevan, Corporal, 2nd Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Burry Port)

Richard award of the Military Medal was listed in the London Gazette of 12 June 1918. Richard was killed in action on the 15th September, 1918. He has no known grave, and so is remembered on the Vis-En-Artois Memorial, France.

4947 Sergeant William Coleman, 62nd Company, Machine Gun Corps. (Llanelly)

William was awarded the Military Medal early in the war. He was later killed in action at the Battle of Albert, on 13 July 1916 and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France.

18123 Guardsman Thomas Coonan, 4th Battalion, Guards Machine Gun Regiment. (Llanelli)

Thomas' award of the Military Medal was listed in the London Gazette of 10 October 1916. He was killed in action on 7 May 1918 and is buried at Gommecourt Wood New Cemetery, Fonquevillers, France.

12094 Sergeant John William Crump, 4th Battalion, Worcestershire Regiment. (Garnant)

John's award of the Military Medal was listed in the London Gazette of 5 January 1917. John was killed in action at the Battle of Langemarck on 16 August, 1917, and is remembered on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium.

2004678 Private David J. Davies, 4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Henllan)

David's award of the Military Medal was listed in the London Gazette of 29 March 1919. He was Discharged Class E on 8 March 1919.

14222 Private Howell John Davies, 9th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Llanelly)

Howell's award was listed in the London Gazette of 13 May 1919. Howell was wounded during the last weeks of the war, and died on 4 October 1918. He is buried at Bethune Town Cemetery, France.

4020 Guardsman James Thomas Davies, 1st Battalion, Welsh Guards. (Llanwrda)

James was awarded the Military Medal during the war. He was wounded during the Battle of the Sambre, and Died of Wounds on 7 November, 1918. James is buried at Villers-Pol Communal Cemetery Extension.

Deal/3477/S Lance Corporal James Davies, R.M. Medical Unit, Royal Marines. (Llanelly)

James' award was listed in the 16 February 1917. He survived the war, but sadly died of Influenza and Pneumonia on 20 November 1918.

200770 Serjeant John Evan Davies, 4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment (Abergwili)

John's award was listed in the London Gazette of 16 July 1918. His medals are held at the Carmarthen County Museum at Abergwili.

14895 Private Jonny C. Davies, 11th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Nantgaredig)

Jonny's award was listed in the London Gazette of 18 June 1917. He was wounded during the Battle of Doiran, and died of his wounds on 25 September, 1918. Jonny lies in Sarigol Military Cemetery, Kriston.

216, Guardsman Reggie Davies, Welsh Guards. (Llanelly).

His award was listed in the London Gazette of 24 January 1919

20501 Lance Corporal Richard J. Davies, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llanelly)

Richard's award was listed in the London Gazette of 2 November 1917, and was for the Pilckem Ridge. He was Discharged Class Z on 28 February 1919.

20732 Private Thomas Haydn Davies, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Ammanford)

Thomas' award was listed in the London Gazette of 14 December 1916, so was probably for Mametz Wood. He was killed in action at Ypres on 30 January, 1917 at Ypres, and is buried at Bard Cottage Cemetery, Belgium.

5540 Private William Davies, 2nd Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Llanybydder)

William's award was listed in the London Gazette of 6 July 1917. William was killed in action during the Battle of the Scarpe, on 21 May 1917. William's body was lost, and he is remembered on the Arras Memorial to the Missing.

200454 Sergeant Brinley John Delaney, Welsh Regiment. (Llanelly)

Brinleys award was listed in the London Gazette of 12 December 1917. He was later commissioned into the commissioned into South Wales Borderers on 28 May 1918.

1802, Lance Corporal Joseph Emanuel, Welsh Guards. (Llanelly).

His award was listed in the London Gazette of 24 January 1919

1256 Gunner David Evans, 'X', 47th Trench Mortar Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery. (Carmarthen)

David's award was listed in the London Gazette on 2 June 1916. He sadly died soon after, on 18 September 1916, and was buried at St. Sever Cemetery, Rouen.

13534 Private Edward Idris Evans, 9th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Kidwelly)

Edward was born in Kidwelly in 1890, and was a Collier. He was awarded the Military Medal for Passchendaele, the award of which was listed in the London Gazette of 17 December 1917.

13485 Corporal John Evans, 9th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Brynamman)

John's award was listed in the London Gazette of 10 September 1918. He was sadly killed in action on before it was listed, on 29 April 1918, and is remembered on the Tyne Cot Memorial.

59840 Private William G. Francis, 9th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Ponthenry)

William's award was listed in the London Gazette of 17 June 1919.

12854 Sergeant Herbert Goldsby, 9th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Tumble)

Herbert's award was listed in the London Gazette of 22 August 1916. Sadly Herbert was killed in action soon after his award, at the Battle of Pozieres on 27 July 1916. He is remembered on the Thiepval Memorial, France.

20206 William H. Griffiths, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llanelly)

William's award was listed in the London Gazette of 14 May 1919.

49843 Spr. David Harries, Royal Engineers. (Whitland).

David was the son of James Harries, of 26, St. Mary's Street, Whitland, and was the first Whitland man to win the Military Medal during the war. The award was listed in the London Gazette of 29 August 1918.

12903 Lance Sergeant Frank Jenkins, 9th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Dafen)

Frank's award was listed in the London Gazette of 10 September 1918. Frank was wounded in Flanders, probably during the action which saw him winning the Military Medal, and he died on 8 May, 1918. He is buried at Poperinghe New Military Cemetery, Belgium.

871225, Sergeant Major James Jenkins, Canadian Railway Troops. (Meidrim).

James was born at Talog on 26 July 1880, the son of Mrs. A. Jones, later of Wolfscastle Inn, Llanfyrnach. He was working in Canada before the war, as a shell maker, but enlisted at Winnepeg in February 1916, joining the Canadian Railway Company.

200468 Lance Corporal David J. Jeremy, 1/4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Carmarthen)

David's award was listed in the London Gazette of 19 March 1918. He was later Discharged Class E on 6 February 1919.

52475 Lance Corporal David W. Jones, Royal Engineers. (Carmarthen)

Lance Corporal Jones' award was listed in the London Gazette of 14 December 1917.

2627, Guardsman Edward Lewis Jones, Welsh Guards. (Carmarthen).

His award was listed in the London Gazette of 17 June 1919.

200239 Corporal Gwilym Jones, 4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llanelly)

Gwilym's award was listed in the London Gazette of 11 February 1919.

28952 Private John E. Jones, Welsh Regiment. (Llandebie)

John's award was listed in the London Gazette of 12 December 1917, and was probably for the Pilckem Ridge.

202827 Lance Corporal Llewellyn Jones, 16th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Llandeilo)

Llewellyn's award was listed in the London Gazette of 7 February 1919. He had been Killed in Action at the Battle of the Selle, on 8 October, 1918, and is buried at Bois-Des-Angles British Cemetery, Crevecouer-Sur-L'Escaut.

Private T. Jones, Royal Army Medical Corps. (Llanelly)

Private Jones is listed in the 1922 published Carmarthen County War Memorial Roll as being the holder of the Military Medal. No more can be traced of him at present.

13367 Private Trevor Jones, 9th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Llanelly)

Trevor's award was listed in the London Gazette of 16 February 1917. He was killed at the Battle of Ypres on 31 July 1917, and is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial.

53638 Private William Jones, 2nd Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Golden Grove)

William's award was listed in the London Gazette of 14 May 1919.

40083 Private William Thomas Jones, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. (Carmarthen).

Tom's award was listed in the London Gazette of 14 December 1917.

2827 Driver David William Lewis, 'D' Battery, 67 Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. (Llandebie)

David's award was listed in the London Gazette of 25 January 1918. He was wounded during the Battle of Passchendaele, and Died of Wounds on 28 October 1917. He is buried at Nine Elms British Cemetery.

2661, Guardsman James Lewis, Welsh Guards. (Henllan).

James was awarded the Military Medal for the Pilckem Ridge. It was listed in the London Gazette of 16 November 1917.

13724 Private Stephen Lister, 2nd Battalion, South Wales Borderers. (Llanelly)

Stephen's award was listed in the London Gazette of 6 July 1917. He was later wounded at Ypres, and died on 3 February 1918. He is buried at Nine Elms British Cemetery.

14887 Lance Corporal David Lloyd, 17th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Burry Port)

David's award was listed in the London Gazette of 13 March 1918 and was for Bourlon Wood. He was Discharged Class Z on 31 January 1919.

112644 Bombardier Gilbert Marshall, 'D' Battery, 77 Army Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. (Llanelly)

Gilbert's award was listed in the London Gazette of 21 January 1919. He had sadly been killed prior to this, during the advance on the Hindenburg Line, on 2 September 1918, and is buried in Vis-En-Artois British Cemetery, Haucourt.

20462 Private William Martin, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Carmarthen)

William's award was listed in the London Gazette of 11 February 1919. Sadly he had been killed during the fighting at Morval on 30 August 1918 and is buried at Morval British Cemetery.

263, Guardsman Henry James Matthews, Welsh Guards. (Burry Port).

His award was listed in the London Gazette of 17 June 1919.

14735 Sergeant Thomas Morgan, 1st Battalion, South Wales Borderers. (Llandingat)

Thomas' award was listed in the London Gazette of 8 December 1916. He was wounded during the Second Battle of Passchendaele, and died on 10 November 1917. Thomas is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial.

WZ/155 Able Seaman A. Reggie Morris, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. (Laugharne)

Reggie's award was listed in the London Gazette of 28 January 1918. It was awarded for bravery while carrying despatches under fire.

73308 Private John Edward Price, 28th Battalion, Canadian Infantry. (Laugharne)

John's award was listed in the London Gazette of 21 September 1916. He was later commissioned into the Royal Air Force, and survived the war.

117038 Sergeant George Edward Radford, 331 Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery. (Llanelly)

George's award was listed in the London Gazette of 21 January 1919. He had sadly been killed during the advance on the Hindenburg Line on 22 September 1918, and is buried at La Chapelette British & Indian Cemetery, Peronne.

20182 Private Thomas J. Rees, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llandebie)

Thomas' award was listed in the London Gazette of 28 September, 1917 and was probably for the Pilckem Ridge. He was Discharged on 17 January 1919.

20419 Sergeant John H. Richardson, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llanelly)

John's award was listed in the London Gazette of 11 February 1919. He was also awarded the Croix-de-Guerre.

80455 Sergeant Joseph Rose, 'D' Battery, 63rd Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. (Llanelly)

Joseph's award was listed in the London Gazette of 16 October 1917. He was later killed during the Battle of Cambrai on 1 December 1917 and is buried at Peronne Communal Cemetery Extension.

15585 Sergeant Allen Maxwell Ruston, 7th Battalion, Northumberland Regiment. (Carmarthen)

Allen's award was listed in the London Gazette of 2 June 1916. He was later commissioned into the 2nd Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers, and was killed with them at the First Battle of Kemmel, on 23 April 1918. He is buried at Mont-Bernanchon British Cemetery, Gonnehem.

Corporal D. J. Thomas, Corporal. (Ponthenry).

Corporal Thomas had worked in the colliery at Ponthenry prior to the war, and enlisted with nine friends into the Mdical Unit of the Royal Naval Division. He gained his Military Medal for carrying wounded men to cover under shell fire.

1276, Guardsman Gwilym Thomas, Welsh Guards. (Llanelly).

Gwilym's award was listed in the London Gazette of 11 February 1919.

2943 Driver John J. Thomas, 38th Trench Mortar Battery, Royal Field Artillery. (Llannon)

John's award was listed in the London Gazette of 25 May 1917. He was later wounded at Armentières and died on 30 March 1918. John is buried at Merville Communal Cemetery Extension, France.

R/3758 Sergeant Norman Thomas, 11th Battalion, Kings Royal Rifle Corps. (Llandilo)

Norman's award was listed in the London Gazette of 16 October 1917. He was Killed in Action at Cambrai on 30 November, 1917 and is remembered on the Cambrai Memorial, Louverval.

3208, Guardsman William John Thomas, Welsh Guards (Kidwelly).

Williams award was listed in the London Gazette of 14 May 1919.

54557 Private David J. Treharne, 14th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Carmarthen)

David's award was listed in the London Gazette of 17 June 1919.

18429 Private David W. Williams, 13th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Kidwelly)

David's award was listed in the London Gazette of 18 October 1917, and was probably for the Pilckem Ridge. He also gained a Bar to his Military Medal, which was listed in the London Gazette of 11 February 1919, and was also the holder of the Distinguished Conduct Medal.

794, Lance Corporal Griffith Trevor Williams, Welsh Guards, (Carmarthen).

His award was listed in the London Gazette of 24 January 1919.

20663 Sergeant John Williams, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Carmarthen)

His award was listed in the London Gazette of 11 February 1919.

12911 Sergeant John R. Williams, South Wales Borderers. (Pontyberem).

His award was listed in the London Gazette of 9 April 1918.

13676 Private Myrddin Williams, Welsh Regiment. (Ammanford)

His award was listed in the London Gazette of 25 April 1918.

14682 Private William Henry Williams, 5th Battalion, South Wales Borderers. (Llanelly)

William's award was listed in the London Gazette of 19 February 1917. He had sadly been earlier killed in action at the Battle of Pozieres on 30 July 1916, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France.

63131 Private David John Yeo, 9th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Carmarthen)

David's award was listed in the London Gazette of 14 May 1919. Sadly he was dead by then, being killed at the Battle of the Sambre on 4 November 1918. He is commemorated on the Vis-En-Artois Memorial, France.

FOREIGN AWARDS

32562 Private Richard Davies, MM, 11th Battalion, East Lancashire Regiment (Pencader, Carmarthen). Was awarded the French Croix-de-Guerre, which was Gazetted 24 October 1919.

Lieutenant Thomas Lewis Ebsworth, 6th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Pendine)

Thomas was awarded the French Croix-de-Guerre during his time at war.

15260 Sergeant J. Griffiths, 11th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. (Llanarthney)

Was awarded the Greek Military Cross in the London Gazette of 21 July 1919.

1975 Private Hugh Llewellyn Jones, Royal Army Medical Corps. (Llanelli)

Hugh was awarded the White Eagle of Serbia, for distinguished conduct at Gallipoli.

20988 Private William Jones, 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment (Ammanford)

William was awarded Belgian Croix-de-Guerre in the London Gazette of 12 July 1918.

14043 Farrier Staff Sergeant Richard Keenan, 8th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. (Llanelli)

Richard was born in Llanelly in 1879. He landed in France on 19 August 1914, and during his time at war was recommended for the Distinguished Conduct Medal. He was actually awarded the Russian Cross of St. George, after being Mentioned in Sir John French's Despatches in the London Gazette of 16 February 1915. The Llanelly Guardian of that date printed a write up of him, and also the portrait photo shown below.