
Arthur Roberts, Private, 201032, Welsh Regiment. Arthur was born at Tenby, but had moved to live in Llanelli prior to the war. He enlisted there into the 1/4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was part of 159 Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division. The Division had fought gallantly on Gallipoli, and after evacuation had fought through the Palestinian campaign, where Arthur must have taken ill. He was brought home, but sadly Died of Sickness on 13 July 1918, and is buried at Old Road Church Cemetery, Llanelli.
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.


Victor George Roberts, Second Lieutenant, Welsh Regiment. Victor was born in Llanelli in 1897, the Son of Joseph and Annie Roberts, of 'Y Goedwig', Lakefield Road, Llanelli. He joined the Inns of Court OTC on 2 January 1916 and was commissioned Second Lieutenant into the 4th Welsh on 28 February 1917. Victor was posted to the 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, the Carmarthen Pals battalion, which was in France, attached to 114 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division. He was killed at Ypres soon after, on 27 July 1917, when the Germans fired an artillery barrage on the trenches held by the 15th Welsh. Victor is buried alongside many of his comrades at Bard Cottage Cemetery, Boesinghe, Belgium.

William Henry Roberts, Gunner, 3248, Royal Field Artillery. William was the Son of Mr. and Mrs. William Roberts, of Marble House, Marble Hall, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Garrison Artillery, and was posted to France with 'A' Battery, 84th Brigade, RGA, which was attached to the 18th (Eastern) Division. On 25 May 1915 the Division landed in Boulogne, and didn't see its first major action until July, 1916 when it took part in the Battle of Albert. They then fought at the Battle of Bazentin, where they captured Trones Wood, and moved on to the Battle of Delville Wood. In October they took part in the Battle of the Ancre Heights, and captured Schwaben Redoubt, and helped capture Regina Trench. William was killed here on 7 March 1917. He was 42 years old, and is buried at Pozieres British Cemetery, Ovillers-La-Boiselle, France.
George John Robinson, Private, 46055, King's Liverpool Regiment. George was the Son of Charles Collett Robinson and Mary Ann Robinson, of Wolvercote, Oxford, and the Husband of Hannah Jane Robinson, of Hook Norton, Banbury. He probably worked at Llanelli prior to the war, and enlisted there into the King's Liverpool Regiment. George was at some time transferred to a Labour Battalion of the Liverpool Regiment. He was wounded during the Battle of the Menin Road, and died on 22 September 1917, aged 47. George is buried at Dozinghem Military Cemetery, Belgium.

Alan Whitlock Nicholl Roderick, Lieutenant, Welsh Regiment. Alan served as a Lieutenant with the 4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which had formed at Carmarthen in August, 1914. They were later attached to 159 Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division, and sailed from Devonport in July 1915 arriving at Mudros by 5 August, 1915. From here they moved to Gallipoli, landing on 9 August 1915. Here they immediately faced the chaotic leadership that was to lead to the ultimate failure of the campaign, and spent the next few days in isolated pockets, fighting against a Turkish counter-attack. Alan was killed in action here on 10 August 1915, and is remembered on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

Hume Buckley Roderick, Captain, Welsh Guards. Hume was the eldest Son of William and Ella Buckley Roderick, of Goodig, Pembrey. Born in 1887, he was educated at Parkfield School, Hayward's Heath, and at Rugby, where he was a member of the Cricket XI. He later qualified as a Solicitor, and was a member of the firm of Roderick and Richards, Llanelli. At the outbreak of war, Hume was a Captain with the 4th Welsh, stationed at Pembroke Dock. He went with the Welsh to Gallipoli, attached to the 53rd (Welsh) Division, but was invalided home due to illness. Hume then returned to Egypt to rejoin his Battalion in 1916, and later that year returned home again, to take up a Commission in the Welsh Guards. Meanwhile, whilst back in the UK, he married Barbara Garnons-Williams, daughter of the late Lieutenant-Colonel R. D. Garnons-Williams, who had been killed at Loos the previous year. The couple set up home at Tegfan, Devynock, Breconshire. Hume joined his new Battalion on the Western Front in December 1916 and took command of No. 3 Company, 1st Battalion, Welsh Guards. In July 1917 Hume was wounded at Ypres, but remained at the front, and moved with the Battalion from Ypres to positions near Cambrai, where they fought at the Battle of Cambrai throughout November and December 1917. Hume was killed in action at Cambrai on 1 December 1917, whilst leading his Platoon on a charge against a German Machine Gun Post. He was 30 years old, and is buried at Gouzeaucourt New British Cemetery, France.


John Victor Tweed Roderick, Lieutenant, Coldstream Guards. John was the Son of William Buckley Roderick and Ella A. Roderick, of 45, Brunswick Gardens, Kensington, London. He had been commissioned into the Coldstream Guards, and served with the 1st Battalion, which was part of 1st Brigade, Guards Division. The Division saw its first major action during the Battle of Loos on 25 September 1915. In July 1916 the Division moved to the Somme, and fought here for the remainder of the year. In March 1917 took part in the advance caused by the German Retreat to the Hindenburg Line. Later that year they moved north to Ypres, and fought during the Third Battle of Ypres. November saw them move south again, where they took part in the Battle of Cambrai. They remained in the area over the final winter of the war, and were stationed near Gouzeaucourt when the German Spring Offensive hit the area on 21 March 1918, and made a fighting retreat west. After this, the German Offensive petered out on the Somme. On 21 August 1918 the British launched an attack on the Somme, and this is where John was killed in action on 21 August 1918. He was 21 years old, and is buried at Bac-Du-Sud British Cemetery, Baillieulval, France.

George Lewis Rogers, Private, 20463, Border Regiment. George was the Son of John and Ann Rogers, of Caerelms, Llanelli. He enlisted at Carlisle into the 1st Battalion, Border Regiment, which was attached to 87 Brigade, 29th Division. The Division moved to Gallipoli via Egypt, landing on 25 April 1915. They remained here until evacuation to Egypt on 11 January 1916 and then moved to the Western Front on 15 March 1915. The Division took part in its first major action in France during the 1916 Somme Offensive, and fought at the Battles of Albert and Le Transloy, suffering heavy casualties. George was wounded here, and died on 28 October 1916. He was 34 years old, and is buried at Heilly Station Cemetery, France.

Thomas Rogers, Private, 20640, Welsh Regiment. Thomas was the Son of David and Hannah Rogers, of 2, Singleton Terrace, Llansaint, Kidwelly. He was one of the original men who enlisted at Llanelli into the 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, who were raised as the Carmarthen Battalion, and trained at Rhyl. During 1915 the battalion moved to Winchester, and became part of 114 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division. The Division had landed in France during December 1915, and had spent their first winter in the trenches near Armentieres. In June they marched south to the Somme, where they famously captured Mametz Wood. The Division suffered terrible casualties at Mametz, and were taken out of the line, and moved to Ypres to rebuild. Thomas was killed in action here during a trench raid on 30 April 1917, aged 26. He is buried at Perth Cemetery (China Wall), Belgium.

Douglas Rollason, Driver, W/4905, Royal Field Artillery. Douglas was born at Chester, and was the Husband of Dora Rose Rollason, of 47, Stafford Street, Llanelli. He enlisted at Newtown into the Welsh Royal Artillery, and was posted to France with D Battery, 121st Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, which was attached to the 38th (Welsh) Division. Douglas served with the Division throughout the war, and took part in its epic assault on Pilckem Ridge during July and August 1917. Over the winter of 1917-18 the Division was stationed around Armentieres. Douglas was killed here on 11 March 1918, aged 28. He is buried at Erquinghem-Lys Churchyard Extension, France.

Charles Rose, Private, 10576, Cavalry. Charles was the Son of Jehu and Emily Rose, of Holly Farm, Freshford, Bath. He probably worked at Llanelli prior to the war, and enlisted there into the 1st (Royal) Dragoons. At the outbreak of war the regiment was stationed at Potchefstroom, South Africa, and on 27 August 1914 sailed from Cape Town, arriving in England on 19 September 1914, where it joined 6th Cavalry Brigade, 3rd Cavalry Division. The Division landed at Ostend on 8 October 1914, and remained on the Western Front for the duration of the war. Charles was killed in action during the German Spring offensive on the Somme on 24 March 1918, aged 22. He is commemorated on the Poziéres Memorial, France.

Joseph Rose, MM, Sergeant, 80455, Royal Field Artillery. Joseph was born at Bristol, but resided at Llanelli prior to the war, before moving to Carmarthen, where he worked at the Hospital. He enlisted there into the Royal Field Artillery, and was posted to France with D Battery, 63rd Brigade, RFA, which was attached to the 12th (Eastern) Division. He returned home on leave in August 1917, and married Mary Evans, of Laurel Cottage, Johnstown, Carmarthen, before returning to the front. Joseph was killed during the Battle of Cambrai, on 1 December 1917. He is buried at Peronne Communal Cemetery Extension, France. He was the holder of the Military Medal.

Frederick Lewis Rowlands, Gunner, 113090, Royal Field Artillery. Frederick was born at Llanelli in 1885, and lived at 26, Stepney Place, Llanelli. He enlisted there into the Royal Field Artillery, and was posted to France with C Battery, 64th Brigade, RFA, which was attached to the 12th (Eastern) Division. Frederick survived the war, but died of influenza on 19 January 1919. He is buried at Marquette Communal Cemetery, France.


Griffith Ashton Rowland, Private, 266478, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Griffith was the Son of John G. Rowland, of Llanrug. He worked at Llanelli prior to the war, and lived at 62, Biggyn Road, Llanelli. Griffith enlisted there into the Royal Garrison Artillery, but was posted to the 1/6th Battalion (Caernavon & Anglesey), Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which was attached to 158 Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division, and took part in the advance into Palestine from March 1917. Griffith was attached to the 48th Labour Corps when he took ill with appendicitis, and died in hospital at Cairo on 12 October 1917, aged 28. He was buried at Cairo War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt.
William Malcolm Rowlands, Sergeant, 3161, Welsh Regiment. William was Son of Edward Isaac and Elizabeth Rowland, of 14, Sunninghill Terrace, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into 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, fighting against a Turkish counter-attack during the Battle of Sari Bair. William was killed here while advancing along a gulley on 10 August 1915, aged 28. He is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.

Wilfred George Ruck, Private, 19201, Gloucestershire Regiment. Wilfred was the Son of William and Mary Ruck, of 8, Keynsham St., Cheltenham. He probably worked at Llanelli prior to the war, and enlisted there into the army. Wilfred was posted to the 2/5th Battalion, Gloucestershire Regiment, which was attached to 184 Brigade, 61st (2nd South Midland) Division. The Division moved to France during 21 May 1916, moving to positions at Fromelles, and took part in the disastrous attack on 19 July 1916 at Fromelles. In March 1917 the Division followed the German retreat to the Hindenburg Line. Later that year it fought at the Third Battle of Ypres. The Division then moved south, and fought in the Battle of Cambrai. During March 1918 the Division was holding the forward zone of defences in the sector northwest of Saint Quentin, in the area of Ham and lost many men as it fought a chaotic but ultimately successful withdrawal back over the Somme crossings over the next ten days. After suffering heavy casualties, the Division was moved to Flanders to rest, but the Germans launched the second phase of their offensive here just weeks later, seeing the Division in the thick of the action again, during the Battle of Estaires, the Battle of Hazebrouck, and the Battle of Bethune. The Division was again used during the great offensive of August 1918 onwards, and took part in the Advance in Flanders. Wilfred was killed during the Final Advance in Artois, on 30 September 1918. He was 21 years old, and is buried at Laventie Military Cemetery, La Gorgue, France.

Austin Francis Ryan, Private, 6740, Royal Munster Fusiliers. Austin was the Son of Mrs. Ryan, of Fanore, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare. He lived at Llanelli prior to the war, and enlisted there into the army. Austin then went back to Ireland, where he joined the 3rd Battalion, Royal Munster Fusiliers, which was a training reserve battalion. Austin became ill, and died on 9 June 1916, aged 22. He is buried at Cobh Old Church Cemetery, Ireland. Many thanks to Margaret, at Cobh Museum, for the photograph.

Arthur Samuel, Private, 75208, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Arthur was bon at Llanelli, and enlisted there into the 4th Welsh. He was posted to France, where he joined the 2nd Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which had joined 115 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division in February 1918, before moving to positions north of Albert on the Somme. On 21 August 1918 the Division began to cross the River Ancre, capturing Thiepval Ridge and Pozières before pushing towards Longueval and Sailly-Saillisel. Arthur was killed during the advance, on 1 September 1918. He is commemorated on the Vis-En-Artois Memorial, France.

James Roscoe Samuel, Second Lieutenant, North Staffordshire Regiment. James was born at Llanelli, the Son of James and Elizabeth Samuel. The family later moved to St. Edward's Vicarage, Barnsley, Yorks. He served with the King's Shropshire Light Infantry, before being commissioned into the North Staffordshire Regiment, and was posted to Mesopotamia on 4 July 1916, where he joined the 7th Battalion, North Staffs, which was attached to 39 Brigade, 13th (Western) Division. James was killed in action here on 25 January 1917. He was 24 years old, and is buried at Amara War Cemetery, Iraq.
Sydney Samuel, Private, 200928, Welsh Regiment. Sydney was the Son of David and Mary Ann Samuel, of 9, Spring Gardens, Llanelli. He served with 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, fighting against a Turkish counter-attack during the Battle of Sari Bair. 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, where it took part in operations against the Sultan of Darfur, and in March 1917 took part in the advance into Palestine. Sydney survived the war, and was still in Egypt with the 4/5th Welsh when he took ill and died on 24 May 1919, aged 26. He is buried at Alexandria (Hadra) War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt.
Thomas Samuel, Rifleman, S/3567, Rifle Brigade. Thomas was born at Llanelli and was the husband of Elizabeth Ann Samuel (nee Griffiths), and the Brother of Cadifor Samuel, of 4, Luton Terrace, Furnace. He enlisted at Cardiff into the army, and was posted to the 7th Battalion, Rifle Brigade, which was in France attached to 41 Brigade, 14th (Light) Division. The Division was to see its first action during the Action of Hooge, where the Division were the first to be attacked by the German use of flamethrowers. They then fought at the Second attack on Bellewaarde. In July, 1916 they moved to the Somme, and fought at the Battle of Delville Wood, and then the Battle of Flers-Courcelette. Thomas was wounded on the Somme, and brought home, where he died at King Georges Hospital, London on 26 August 1916. He was buried at Capel Newydd Calvinist Methodist Chapelyard, Llanelli.

James Joseph Sanders, Lance Corporal, 706212, Canadian Infantry. James was the Son of John and Mary Sanders, of Fleet Marston, Aylesbury, Bucks, England, and the Husband of Catherine Sanders, of Westfield House, Coldstream Street, Llanelli. He had lived in Canada for several years prior to the war, and enlisted at Victoria, British Columbia into the 103rd Battalion, Canadian Infantry, which was a Feeder Battalion for units at the front. James died after the armistice, on 25 February 1919, aged 44, and is buried at Box Cemetery, Llanelli.

William John Saunders, Private, 1669, Welsh Regiment. William was born at Llanelli, and had enlisted there into the 2nd Battalion, Welsh Regiment. He went to France with the battalion at the outbreak of war, which was attached to 3 Brigade, 1st Division. The Division had been one of the first to arrive in France, fighting at the Battle of Mons, and taking part in the retreat to the Marne, where the Germans were stopped. They then fought at the Aisne, and at Chivy, before being moved north to Ypres. Here they fought at the First Battle of Ypres, where they again stopped the German Offensive, before wintering in Flanders. William was killed near Givenchy on 28 December 1914. He is commemorated on the Le Touret Memorial, Richebourg L'Avoue, France.

Frederick Harold Savage, Private, 368304, Royal Army Medical Corps. Frederick was born at Llanelli in March 1895, the Son of William and Emma Savage. The family later resided at 6, Wellington Street, Swansea, and Frederick enlisted there into the 1/3rd Welsh Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps, which was attached to the 53rd (Welsh) Division. The Division sailed from Devonport in July 1915, and arrived at Mudros on 5 August 1915. From here they moved to Gallipoli, landing 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. Frederick was wounded while the Division was taking part in operations in the Jordan Valley. He died on 11 April 1918, aged 20, and is buried at Jerusalem War Cemetery, Israel.
Francis Charles Dudley Scott, Lieutenant, Royal Air Force. Francis was born on 26 January 1898 the son of William Scott, of Edgehill Lodge, Enfield, Middx. He had lived at Llanelli prior to enlisting into the 9th Battalion, London Regiment, and landing in France on 4 November 1914. Francis was commissioned into the Durham Light Infantry in August 1915, before volunteering to join the Royal Flying Corps. He gained his flying certificate on 25 April 1917, and joined 62 Squadron, RFC in France. On 4 November 1918 Francis was flying a Bristol F2b, serial D7948, near Mons, when he came into contact with two German aircraft. He shot one down, but his aircraft was damaged, and crashed to earth, killing Francis and his Observer, Lieutenant Rigby. Both men are commemorated on the Arras Flying Services Memorial, France.


George Scott, Private. This man cannot presently be identified.
Phillip Llewellyn Searle, Driver, 448104, Royal Engineers. Philip was the Son of Edwin and Mary J. Searle, of Chorlton, Carn Glas Rd., Sketty, Swansea. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Engineers, and served with the Depot Company Royal Anglesey Royal Engineers. Phillip died at home on 3 November 1918. He was 25 years old, and is buried at Sketty (Bethel) Welsh Congregational Chapelyard. Many thanks to Bev Lewis for the photograph.

Thomas Sellick, Private, M/315348, Royal Army Service Corps. Thomas was the Husband of Catherine Sellick (nee Hopkins), of 14, Richard Street, Llanelli. He enlisted at December in December 1915, and became a Driver with the Motor Transport Section of the Army Service Corps. On 30 April 1917 Thomas embarked for East Africa. He became ill, and died of dysentery on 25 January 1918, and is buried at Durban (Stellawood) Cemetery, South Africa.
James Sellwood, Private, 260403, Gloucestershire
Regiment. James was the Son of Mrs. Alice Evans, of 12A, Katie Street,
Blaengarw, Bridgend. His ties with Llanelli are unclear, but he resided at Goodwick prior to the war, and enlisted at
Fishguard into the Monmouthshire Regiment. James was later transferred into the
12th Battalion, Gloucestershire Regiment, which was attached to 95 Brigade, 32nd
Division. At the end of December 1915 the Division was in France, and the
following year took part in the opening of the Somme Offensive, fighting at the
Battle of Albert, the Battle of Bazentin, the Battle of the Ancre and the
resulting Operations on the Ancre. They remained here over the winter, and in
March 1917 followed the German Retreat to the Hindenburg Line. Later that year
the Division moved to Ypres, and James was killed there on 4 October 1917. He
was 18 years old, and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial,
Belgium.
Arthur James Sherwood, Sapper, 197233, Royal Engineers. Arthur was the Son of Wyndham Henry and Lelia French Sherwood (nee Collacott), of Mansel House, Highfield, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Field Artillery, but was posted to France with 'B' Special Company, Royal Engineers, which was a specialist 'Gas Company', expert in the handling and delivery of poison gas. Arthur died during the advance on the Hindenburg Line, on 4 October 1918. He was 27 years old, and is buried at Duisans British Cemetery, Etrun, France. His brother Ernest died at sea, but cannot presently be traced.

Ernest William Sherwood, Seaman, Royal Navy. Ernest was born in 1898, the Son of Wyndham Henry and Lelia French Sherwood, of 3, Talbot Street, Llanelli. No more can be found about him, except that his parent's headstone at Box Cemetery states that Ernest died at sea in 1917. He is not commemorated by the CWGC. His brother Arthur died in 1918.

Thomas Simmonds, Private, 11831, Welsh Regiment. Thomas was born at Lydney, Gloucester. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 8th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was the Pioneer battalion to the 13th (Western) Division. On 13 June 1915 the Division sailed for Alexandria, and moved to Mudros before being landed at Cape Helles, Gallipoli from 6 July 1915, relieving the 29th Division. Thomas was killed at Gallipoli, during the Battle of Sari Bair, on 8 August 1915. He is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.
James David Simpson, Private, 15060, South Wales Borderers. James was born at Haverfordwest, the Son of James and Jessie Simpson. The family later resided at 55, Old Castle Road, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 7th Battalion, South Wales Borderers, which was attached to 67 Brigade, 22nd Division. The Division crossed to France in early September 1915, but its stay in France was short, as on 27 October 1915 the Division, having been moved by train to Marseilles, began to embark for Salonika, completing concentration there in November 1915. It remained in the theatre for the rest of the war, taking part in the Retreat from Serbia during December 1915. During August 1916 they fought at the battle of Horseshoe Hill, then in September 1916 at the battle of Machukovo. Between April and May 1917 the Division fought at the battle of Doiran. James was killed in action during the Second Battle of Doiran, on 25 September 1918. He was 23 years old and is remembered on the Doiran Memorial, Salonika.

Sydney John Skone, Private, 48899, Lancashire Fusiliers. Sydney was born at St. Mary's, Pembroke, and resided at Llanelli prior to the war. He enlisted there into the Army and was posted to the 10th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers, attached to 52 Brigade, 17th (Northern) Division. Between the 12th to the 17th July 1915 the Division landed in France. They spent their initial period of trench familiarisation and then holding the front lines in the southern area of the Ypres salient. Here they took part in fighting at the Bluff during February, 1916 before moving south, where they fought at the Battle of Albert, where the Division captured Fricourt at heavy cost during the opening of the Somme Offensive. They then saw action during the Battle of Arras, at the First and Second Battles of the Scarpe and the Capture of Roeux, before moving back to Ypres, and taking part in the First and Second Battles of Passchendaele. In March, 1918 the Division were on the Somme, Sydney was wounded here and sadly died as a result on 1 March 1918 aged 29. He is buried at Hermies Hill British Cemetery, France.

Frederick Smith, Gunner, W/539, Royal Field Artillery. Frederick was the Son of Abraham and M. Smith, of Newlands Cottage, East Liss, Hants. He worked at Llanelli prior to the war, and enlisted there into the Welsh Artillery. Frederick went to France in December 1915 attached to C Battery, 121st Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, which was attached to the 38th (Welsh) Division. Frederick would have fought at Mametz Wood with the Division. He was killed the following year, during the Battle of Langemarck, on 15 August 1917. Frederick was 34 years old, and is buried at Canada Farm Cemetery, Belgium.

J. Smith, Corporal, King's Liverpool Regiment. This man cannot presently be identified.
William Robert Smith, Lance Corporal, 36155, Welsh Regiment. William was the Son of Walter and Emily Smith, of 21, Caroline Street, Sea Side, Llanelli, and the Husband of Margaret Ann Smith, of 20, Mount Pleasant Street, Trecynon, Aberdare, Glam. He had served with the South Wales Borderers at the start of the war, before being transferred into the 1st Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was attached to 84 Brigade, 28th Division. William was killed during the Battle of Loos, on 1 October 1915. He was 39 years old, and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial, France. He left his wife with six children to raise.


George Henry Joseph Sowter, Captain, Lincolnshire Regiment. George was the Son of George and Isabella Sowter, of Brigg, Lincs. He was the Managing Clerk to William Howell, Solicitor, at Llanelli prior to the war, and was mobilised in August 1914, as a Lieutenant with the 5th Battalion, Lincolnshire Regiment. He was promoted Captain in October 1914, and went to France with the battalion on 1 March 1915, where it was attached to 138 Brigade, 46th (North Midland) Division. George was killed in action during the Divisions first major Battle, during the assault on the Hohenzollern Redoubt at Loos on 13 October 1915. He was 30 years old, and is commemorated on the Loos Memorial, France. His brother, Second Lieutenant Francis Ingle Sowter, of The Buffs, was killed on 9 August 1917.
Henry Griffiths Spinks, Private, 39383, South Wales Borderers. Henry was the Son of George Henry and Sophia Spinks, of 11, Woodend Road, Llanelli. He had served with the Monmouthshire Regiment, before being transferred into the 5th Battalion, South Wales Borderers, 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. Henry was wounded on the Somme during the Battle of the Ancre Heights, and died on 13 October 1916. He was 20 years old, and is buried at Puchevillers British Cemetery, France.

Noel Gordon Stallard, Lance Corporal, 3886, Welsh Regiment. Noel was the Son of Alfred and Eliza Sarah Stallard, of 12, Westbury Street, New Dock, Llanelli. He enlisted with his brother Harry at Llanelli into 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, fighting against a Turkish counter-attack during the Battle of Sari Bair. Noel was killed here on 10 August 1915, and Harry was wounded the same day. Noel was 18 years old, and is buried at Green Hill Cemetery, Gallipoli.

William Herbert Parry Stephens, Corporal, 95366, Royal Field Artillery. William was the Son of Frank and Martha Ann Stephens, of 34 Auckland Terrace, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Field Artillery, and was posted to France with 'A' Battery, 86th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, which was attached to the 19th (Western) Division. William was killed near Arras on 17 April 1917. He was 23 years old, and is buried at Bailleul Road East Cemetery, St. Laurent-Blangy, France.

Frederick William Stoddart, Captain, Wiltshire Regiment. Frederick was the Son of Col. William Stoddart (Madras Staff Corps), and the Husband of Marguerite Fanny Stoddart, of 35, Queen's Gardens, Ealing, London. He had served with the Wiltshire Regiment in China during the Boxer Rising, and at the outbreak of war went to France with the 1st Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment, which was attached to 7 Brigade, 3rd Division. One of the first Divisions to move to France, the 3rd Division remained on the Western Front throughout the war, and fought during the opening Battle of Mons, and in the epic retreat, from the Rearguard Action of Solesmes, through the Battle of Le Cateau, and down to the Marne, where the German Offensive was stopped. They followed the German withdrawal to the Aisne, where they met them in battle, and stopped the advance on Paris. The Division then moved north to Flanders, and took part in the Battle of La Bassée, and at the Battle of Messines, which were a prelude to the First Battle of Ypres. Frederick was killed during the First Battle of Ypres, on 27 October 1914. He was 39 years old, and is commemorated on the Le Touret Memorial, Richebourg L'Avoue, France. He was awarded the Chevalier of the Legion of Honour during his short time in France.

Clifford James Stokes, Corporal, B/203390, Rifle Brigade. Clifford was the Son of James and Alice M. B. Stokes, of Chedzoy, Bridgwater, Somerset. He probably worked at Llanelli prior to the war, and enlisted there into the King's Royal Rifle Corps. Clifford was later posted to the 1st Battalion, Rifle Brigade, which was attached to 11 Brigade, 4th Division. They took part in the epic retreat to the Marne, where the German Offensive was halted, and in the advance to the Aisne. The Division was then moved north to Flanders, and took part in the Battle of Messines, where Units of 4th Division took part in the famous Christmas Truce while they were still in this area, in trenches near Ploegsteert Wood. In 1915 the Division fought at the Second Battle of Ypres, and in the summer of 1916 were on the Somme, where they fought at the Battle of Albert and the Battle of Le Transloy. In April 1917 they were at Arras, and fought at the First Battle of the Scarpe. Clifford was killed here on 9 April 1917, aged 23. He is commemorated on the Arras Memorial, France.

John Frederick Stone, Private, 12962, South Wales Borderers. John was born at Blackburn, and resided at Llanelli prior to the war. He enlisted there into the 4th Battalion, South Wales Borderers, which was attached to 40 Brigade, 13th (Western) Division. On 13 June 1915 the Division sailed for Alexandria, then landed at Cape Helles, Gallipoli from 6 July 1915, relieving the 29th Division. On 8 January 1916, the Division was evacuated from Helles, and by 31 January was concentrated at Port Said, where they held forward posts in the Suez Canal defences. On 12 February, 1916 the Division began to move to Mesopotamia, to strengthen the force being assembled for the relief of the besieged garrison at Kut al Amara. John was killed in Mesopotamia, during the Battle of The Boot, at Band-i-Adhaim on 30 April 1917. He is commemorated on the Basra Memorial, Iraq.
John Storer, Private, 204114, Dorsetshire Regiment. John was the Husband of Ada Storer, of 3, Sea View Terrace, Bwlchyqwynt, Llanelli. He was a regular soldier, and had served during the South African Campaign of 1899-1902. At the outbreak of the Great War John rejoined the Welsh Regiment. He was then posted to the 6th Battalion, Dorsetshire Regiment, which was attached to 50 Brigade, 17th (Northern) Division. During July 1915 the Division landed in France, and moved to the southern area of the Ypres salient. Here they took part in fighting at the Bluff during February, 1916 before moving south, where they fought at the Battle of Albert, where the Division captured Fricourt at heavy cost during the opening of the Somme Offensive. They then saw action during the Battle of Arras, at the First and Second Battles of the Scarpe and the Capture of Roeux, before moving back to Ypres, and taking part in the First and Second Battles of Passchendaele. In March, 1918 the Division were on the Somme, and faced the German Spring Offensive there, fighting at the Battle of St Quentin, and retreated back, fighting at the First Battle of Bapaume. John was wounded near Arras, and died on 6 May 1918, aged 37. He is buried at Doullens Communal Cemetery Extension No. 2, France.

William John Stroud, Private, 4164, Welsh Regiment. William was the Son of Mr. and Mrs. T. Stroud, of 5, Corporation Avenue, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 1/4th Battalion (Carmarthen), Welsh Regiment, which was attached to 159 Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division. The 53rd (Welsh) Division moved to the Mediterranean, sailing from Devonport in July, 1915 arriving at Mudros by 5 August 1915. From here they moved to Gallipoli, landing on 9 August. 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, and then at the Attack on Scimitar Hill. William was killed here on 19 August 1915, aged 20. He is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.
Cornelius Sullivan, Private, 63127, Welsh Regiment. Cornelius was the Son of Cornelius and Mary Sullivan, of 9, Swansea Road, Llanelli. His papers show that he had originally enlisted in August 1914 into the 3rd Welsh, but had deserted, before enlisting at Llanelli on 23 October 1914, into the 4th Welsh. He had served at Gallipoli, and in Egypt with the 1/4th Welsh, before being posted to the 11th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was in Salonika attached to 67 Brigade, 22nd Division. Cornelius survived the war, but died on 5 April 1919. He is buried at Old Road Church Cemetery, Llanelli.
David Summers, Private, 13802, Worcestershire Regiment. David was born at Tipton, Staffordshire. He probably worked at Llanelli prior to the war, and enlisted there into the army. David was posted to the 4th Battalion, Worcestershire Regiment, which was attached to 88 Brigade, 29th Division. The Division moved to Gallipoli via Egypt, landing on 25 April 1915, and saw extensive fighting during the campaign. David was killed during the Battle of Krithia Vineyard, on 6 August 1915. He is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.
Sidney Summers, Private, 109620, Tank Corps. Sidney was born at Llanelli in December 1884, the Son of Edwin and Margaret Summers. The family later resided at 19, West Street, Gorseinon. Sidney enlisted at Merthyr into the Royal Field Artillery, before being sent to France, where he was attached to the 11th Battalion, Tank Corps. Sidney was killed during the great offensive, near Cambrai on 27 September 1918. He was 34 years old, and is buried at Fifteen-Ravine British Cemetery, Villers-Plouich, France.

Francis Sutherns, Gunner, 87130, Royal Field Artillery. Francis was the Son of Frederick William and Matilda Sutherns, of 7, Florance Street, New Dock Road, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Field Artillery, and was posted to France with D Battery, 59th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, which was attached to the 11th (Northern) Division. Francis was killed during the Battle of Messines, and died on 23 July 1917. He was 21 years old, and is buried at Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Belgium.

William Sweeney, Private, 18534, East Lancashire Regiment. William was the Son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Sweeney, of 10, Edate St., Failsworth, Manchester. He probably worked at Llanelli prior to the war, and enlisted there into the Welsh Regiment, under the name of William Dean. William was then posted to the 6th Battalion, East Lancashire Regiment, which was attached to 38 Brigade, 13th (Western) Division. On 13 June 1915 the Division sailed for Alexandria, and moved to Mudros before being landed at Cape Helles, Gallipoli from 6 July 1915, relieving the 29th Division. William was killed here during actions at Suvla Bay, on 11 December 1915. He was 33 years old, and is buried at Green Hill Cemetery, Gallipoli.

John Albert Sweet, Private, 552984, Canadian Infantry. John was born on 4 December 1880, the Son of Mrs. Mary Sweet, of 55, Robinson Street, Llanelli. He resided at Magrath, Canada prior to the war, and enlisted there on 3 April 1916 into Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry. The battalion was in France attached to the 7th Canadian Brigade, 3rd Canadian Division. John fought at Vimy Ridge after arriving in France, and was killed in action during the later Battle of Hill 70, near Loos, on 31 August 1917. He was 36 years old, and is buried at Aix-Noulette Communal Cemetery Extension, France.

Francis John Taggart, Driver, 14317, Royal Field Artillery. Francis was born at Llanelli in September 1884. He enlisted at Swansea into the Royal Artillery, and was posted to France with the 39th Brigade Ammunition Column, Royal Field Artillery, which was attached to the 1st Division. The Division had been one of the first to arrive in France, fighting at the Battle of Mons, and taking part in the retreat to the Marne, where the Germans were stopped. They then fought at the Aisne, and at Chivy, before being moved north to Ypres. Here they fought at the First Battle of Ypres, where they again stopped the German Offensive, before wintering in Flanders. The following year saw them in action again at the Battle of Aubers. Francis was wounded around this time, and died on 6 April 1915. He was 30 years old, and is buried at Wimereux Communal Cemetery, France.

Phillip Taylor, Stoker, Royal Naval Transport Section. Phillip resided at 29, Stanley Street, New Dock, Llanelli. He served in the Royal Navy, and was Mentioned in Despatches for his work during the Gallipoli landings on 25 April 1915. Nothing more can presently be traced about Phillip.
Cyril Vaughan Thomas, Lieutenant, Royal Field Artillery. Cyril was born on 28 January 1895, the Son of John Henry and Sarah Jane Thomas, of Gwynfryn, College Square, Llanelli. He enlisted into the Royal Field Artillery as a Driver on 31 August 1914, and served in France from May 1915. He was commissioned into the Royal Field Artillery on 6 September 1916. Cyril moved back to France on 2 November 1916, joining the 21st Battery, 2nd Brigade, Royal Field Artillery, which was attached to the 2nd Division. He was killed in action near the La Bassee Canal, during the Third Battle of the Scarpe, on 18 July 1917. Cyril was 22 years old, and is buried at Philosophe British Cemetery, Mazingarbe, France.


D. Thomas, Private, Machine Gun Corps. This man cannot presently be identified.
D. Thomas, Private, South Wales Borderers. This man cannot presently be identified.
D. E. Thomas, Private, South Wales Borderers. This man cannot presently be identified.
D. P. Thomas, Corporal, Royal Engineers. This man cannot presently be identified.
David Thomas, Private, 203441, Welsh Regiment. David was the Son of Richard and Catherine Thomas, of Hen-Barc, Llanllechid, Bangor. He probably worked at Llanelli prior to the war, and enlisted there into the 4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. David was posted to Salonika later in the war, where he joined the 11th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was attached to 67 Brigade, 22nd Division. He was killed during the Battle of Doiran, on 18 September 1918, aged 31, and is buried at Doiran Military Cemetery, Greece.

David Thomas, Private, 32295, East Lancashire Regiment. David was born in Llandeilo, the Son of John and Mary Thomas, later of Garn Ffrwd, Mynydd Cerrig, Pontyberem. He enlisted at Cardiff into the 2/1st Monmouthshire Regiment, which was attached to 205 Brigade, 68th Division. The Division remained in the UK on Home Service for the duration of war, but David transferred to the 1st Battalion, East Lancashire Regiment, which had been in France since 22 August 1914 attached to 11 Brigade, 4th Division. They had fought at Le Cateau, the Marne and the Aisne, and also at Messines in 1914 where they took part in the famous Christmas Truce. In 1915 they fought at Second Ypres, and in 1916 at Albert and Le Transloy during the Somme Offensive. Spring 1917 saw them at Arras, where they fought at the Battles of the Scarpe, and they then moved to Ypres, where they fought in the Battle of Polygon Wood, and at Broodseinde, where David was killed in Action on 4 October 1917, aged 30. He is remembered on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium.

David Thomas, Sapper, 66100, Royal Engineers. David was the Son of Ebenezer and Hannah Thomas, of 77, Dillwyn Street, Llanelli. David was serving with 'L' Signal Battalion, Royal Engineers at the time of his death on 13 September 1919. He was 32 years old, and is buried at Box Cemetery, Llanelli.
David James Thomas, Able Seaman, 197451, Royal Navy. David was the Son of David Price Thomas and Caroline Fisher Thomas, of Bank Cottage Farm, Burry Port, and the Husband of Charlotte Betty Thomas, of 7, Hill Street, Dundee. David served with the Royal Navy, aboard HM Submarine G7. She was on patrol in the North Sea when contact was lost with her on 23 October 1918. She was declared lost with all hands on 1 November 1918. David is now remembered alongside his fellow crewmen on the Plymouth Naval Memorial, Devon. He had been a long servant to the Royal Navy, as he had gained his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal prior to his death.
David Joseph Thomas, Private, 18646, Welsh Regiment. David was born at Llanelli, the Son of David and Ann Thomas, later of 1120, Neath Rd., Plasmarl, Swansea. He married Sarah Davies at Llanelli in 1912, and the couple moved to Swansea. David enlisted at Neath into the Rhondda Battalion, Welsh Regiment, and was posted to the 16th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was attached to 115 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division. The Division had landed in France during December 1915 and had spent their first winter in the trenches near Armentieres. In June they marched south to the Somme, where they were tasked with the capture of Mametz Wood. The attack on the wood began on 7 July, but met with fierce resistance, and it took until 14 July to totally clear the wood. The Division suffered terrible casualties at Mametz, and were taken out of the line, and moved to Ypres to rebuild. Here they fought at the Battle of Pilckem Ridge, and the Battle of Langemarck. David was killed at Eagle Trench, during the Battle of Langemarck, on 27 August 1917. He was 38 years old, and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium.

David Rees Thomas, Acting Company Quarter Master Sergeant, 45, Royal Engineers. David was the Son of Mr. D. Thomas, of 93, Station Road, Llanelli, and lived at the Melbourne Inn, Llanelli prior to the war. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 1/1st Welsh Field Company, Royal Engineers, which was attached to the 53rd Welsh Division. He was killed in action at Helles, Gallipoli on 23 October 1915. David is buried at Lala Baba Cemetery, Gallipoli.


David Walter Thomas, Private, 39445, Gloucestershire Regiment. David was born at Llanelli, and enlisted at Carmarthen into the Welsh Regiment. He was sent to France, where he joined the 8th (Service) Battalion, Gloucestershire Regiment, which was attached to 57 Brigade, 19th (Western) Division. The Division moved to France during July 1915, and fought at the Battle of Loos on 25 September 1915. The following year the Division fought on the Somme. In 1917 the Division moved to Ypres, taking part in the Battle of Messines, and in the main Passchendaele offensive. In 1918 they were caught up in the German Spring Offensive near St. Quentin, where they suffered terrible casualties, and fought at the Battle of Bapaume. They moved to Ypres, but were caught up in the German attack at Messines, and at Bailleul, and Kemmel. After suffering terribly again, they moved South to the quieter French sector to rebuild, but were caught up in the German offensive on the Aisne. After suffering heavily, they were back on the northern sector of the Somme later that year, and took part in the great offensive from 21 August 1918. David was killed here on 9 September 1918. He is commemorated on the Loos Memorial, France.

David William Thomas, Private, 12777, South Wales Borderers. David was the Son of the Jonah Thomas, of Cornish Place, New Dock, Llanelli, and the Husband of Margaret Thomas, of 45, Bigyn Road, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 4th Battalion, South Wales Borderers, which was attached to 40 Brigade, 13th (Western) Division. On 13 June 1915 the Division sailed for Alexandria, and moved to Mudros before being landed at Cape Helles, Gallipoli from 6 July 1915, relieving the 29th Division. David was killed at Gallipoli, during the Battle of Sari Bair, on 12 August 1915. He was 26 years old, and is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.
E. Thomas, Private, Suffolk Regiment. This man cannot presently be identified.
E. J. Thomas, Corporal, Welsh Regiment. This man cannot presently be identified.
Edward Thomas, Private, 28582, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. Edward was the Son of William and Ann Thomas, of Thomas Street, Llanelli. He had originally enlisted at Llanelli into the Welsh Regiment, but was later posted to the 7th Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, which was attached to 49 Brigade, 16th (Irish) Division. During December, 1915 the Division moved to France and concentrated in the Bethune area. They saw their first major action during the Somme Offensive, at the Battle of Guillemont, Edward was killed here on 9 September 1916, aged 47. He has no known grave, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France.

Evan Edward Thomas, Private, 203027, South Lancashire Regiment. Evan was the Son of Jonah and Cathrine Ann Thomas, of 3, Custom House Bank, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the army, and was posted to France, joining the 1/4th Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment, which was the Pioneer battalion to the 55th (West Lancashire) Division. The Division was reformed in France during January 1916, and relieved the French 88th Division south of Arras. Relieved by the 11th (Northern) Division on 25 July, the Division moved south and fought in the Somme offensive. The Division left the Somme on 28 September 1916, and moved to Ypres, in the Railway Wood sector, until taking part in the Battle of Pilkem. After suffering terrible casualties, the Division was withdrawn to Recques for re-fit and training, before moving back into the line on 15 September, and fighting at the Battle of the Menin Road. The Division moved out of the line from 22 September and took part in the Battle of Cambrai. The Division relieved 42nd (East Lancashire) Division in the front line at Givenchy and Festubert on 15 February, and suffered several German raids in March 1918. Evan was killed during one such raid, on 20 March 1918. He was 18 years old, and is buried at Rue-Du-Bois Military Cemetery, Fleurbaix, France.

Gordon Richard Cynlais Thomas, Lance Corporal, 57799, Welsh Regiment. Gordon was the Son of David and H. R. Thomas, of the Ship Inn, Church Street, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the army, and was posted to France in 1917, joining the 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was known as the Carmarthen Pals battalion, attached to 114 Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division. The Division was stationed at Boesinghe, on the Yser Canal, where it remained until launching its attack on Pilckem Ridge on 31 July 1917. The 15th Welsh remained in the line, and also took part in the Battle of Langemarck, before the entire Division was moved to positions near Armentieres over the winter. After the Germans launched their offensive on the Somme on 21 March 1918, the Division was moved back to the Somme, and took up positions north of Albert, around Aveluy Wood. From here they took part in the great advance from 21 August 1918 which was to win the war. Gordon survived the war, but died on 15 March 1919, aged 22. He was buried at Box Cemetery, Llanelli.


Gwilym Daniel Thomas, Private, 203008, South Lancashire Regiment. Gwilym was the Son of John and Frances Thomas, of 73, Bigyn Hill, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the army, and was posted to France, joining the 2/4th Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment, which was attached to 172 Brigade, 57th (2nd West Lancs) Division. The Division moved to France between 7 and 22 February 1917, and moved to positions near Ypres, where they took part in the Second Battle of Passchendaele. In August 1918 they took part in the great advance, and Gwilym was killed during the Battle of The Scarpe, on 28 August 1918. He was 25 years old, and is commemorated on the Vis-En-Artois Memorial, France.

Hiram Rees Thomas, Private, 72075, Cheshire Regiment. Hiram was from Llanelli, and enlisted there into the army. He was posted to France, joining the 11th Battalion, Cheshire Regiment, which was attached to 7 Brigade, 25th Division. The Division landed in France on 26 September 1915, and were posted to the Vimy area. They then moved to the Somme and attacked on 3 July 1916 near Thiepval. They fought throughout the Battle of the Somme, and then moved to Ploegsteert, where they held the line for the months leading up the Battle of Messines in June 1917. After fighting at Messines, the Division moved north, and fought at Pilckem, before moving south again, where they took up positions around Bullecourt in reserve. Here the Division was used to reinforce the badly depleted British units that were hit in the area by the German Spring Offensive. They moved north to Flanders on the night of 30 March, where they took up positions at Ploegsteert again, where they received reinforcements, and rebuilt. However, on 9 April the Germans launched an offensive on the Lys, and the Division was caught up in the terrible fighting here, at the Battles of Estaires, Bailleul, Messines and Kemmel. The Division withdrew to Abeele on 17 April, but on 25 April was ordered back into the line, and took part in the Second Battle of Kemmel. Hiram was killed here on 3 May 1918. He is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium.

Hubert Thomas, Corporal, 63468, Royal Garrison Artillery. Hubert was the Son of John and Elizabeth Thomas, of 2, Laburnum Cottage, Swansea Road, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Garrison Artillery, and was posted to France with the 183rd Siege Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery. Hubert was wounded during the German retreat to Hindenburg Line, and died on 4 March 1917, aged 21. He is buried at Faubourg D'Amiens Cemetery, Arras, France.


James Thomas, Corporal, 201101, Welsh Regiment. James was born at Llanelli, and enlisted there into 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, fighting against a Turkish counter-attack during the Battle of Sari Bair. 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, where it took part in operations against the Sultan of Darfur, and in March 1917 took part in the advance into Palestine. James was then attached to the 2/2nd King's African Rifles, which fought in the East African campaign. James was killed here on 31 August 1918. He is buried at Lumbo British Cemetery, East Africa.
James Brown Thomas, Stoker, 6765/S, Royal Naval Reserve. James was the Husband of Sarah Jane Thomas of Llanelli. He served with the Royal Naval Reserve aboard HMS Edgar, which was stationed in the Mediterranean. James took ill, and was hospitalised at Mudros, where he died on 14 December 1917. He was 37 years old, and is buried at East Mudros Military Cemetery, Greece.
John Thomas, Sergeant, 14956, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. John was the Son of John and Margaret Thomas, of Pwll, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli at the outbreak of war into the 11th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which was attached to 67 Brigade, 22nd Division. John visited his family at Llanelli in August 1915, just before the division was to move to France. He took ill while on leave, and was rushed to hospital, where he died on 3 September 1915. John was buried at Pwll (Bethlehem) Baptist Chapelyard.

John Thomas, Sergeant, 8952, Rifle Brigade. John was born at Carmarthen, the son of Harriet Thomas, later of 25, Richard Street, Llanelli. He had served with the 3rd Welsh in South Africa, Egypt and India prior to the war, and being a reservist was called up in August 1914, joining the 2nd Battalion, Rifle Brigade. The battalion was attached to 25 Brigade, 8th Division, and moved to the Western Front in November 1914, a badly-needed reinforcement to the BEF which had been all but wiped out at Ypres. They saw their first major action at the Battle of Neuve Chapelle, and then at the Battle of Aubers. They then saw further fighting at the Action of Bois Grenier, before moving to the Somme in 1916, where they fought at the Battle of Albert. In March, 1917 they followed the German Retreat to the Hindenburg Line, and later that year moved to Ypres, fighting at the Battle of Pilckem, and the Battle of Langemarck. John was killed at Ypres on 19 November 1917. He was 33 years old, and is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium.

John Thomas, Private, 14106, South Wales Borderers. John was born at Llanelli, and lived at Dolau Road. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 4th Battalion, South Wales Borderers, which was attached to 40 Brigade, 13th (Western) Division. On 13 June 1915 the Division sailed for Alexandria, and moved to Mudros before being landed at Cape Helles, Gallipoli from 6 July 1915, relieving the 29th Division. On 8 January 1916, the Division was evacuated from Helles, and by 31 January was concentrated at Port Said, where they held forward posts in the Suez Canal defences. On 12 February, 1916 the Division began to move to Mesopotamia, to strengthen the force being assembled for the relief of the besieged garrison at Kut al Amara. John was killed here on 5 April 1916. He is commemorated on the Basra Memorial, Iraq.

John Oliver Thomas, Private, 65, Non Combatant Corps. John was the Son of William and Margaret Thomas, of Llanelli. John was a conscientious objector, and after a court hearing at Llanelli, was accepted for service with the 1st Western Company, Non Combatant Corps on 27 March 1916. He married Sarah Hughes at Llanelli on 13 May 1916, and they lived at 89, Cleveland Buildings, Station Road, Llanelli. Within weeks, John was posted to France, and was put to work as a shunter. On 12 September 1917, John was working as a shunter aboard a military train at Incheville, and had just uncoupled some wagons from the front of the engine, when he slipped, and was run over, losing a leg and suffering severe head injuries. He died in No. 2 Canadian General Hospital at Le Treport on 18 September 1917, aged 32, and is buried at Mont Huon Military Cemetery, Le Treport, France.

L. Thomas, Sapper, Royal Engineers. This man cannot presently be identified.
Lewis Thomas, Corporal, 201202, Welsh Regiment. Lewis was born at Treorchy, but lived at Llanelli prior to the war. He enlisted there into 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, fighting against a Turkish counter-attack during the Battle of Sari Bair. 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, where it took part in operations against the Sultan of Darfur, and in March 1917 took part in the advance into Palestine. Lewis was killed during the First Battle of Gaza, on 26 March 1917. He is commemorated on the Jerusalem Memorial, Israel.

Martyn Thomas, Private, 4089, Honourable Artillery Company. Martyn was the Son of Henry and Rachel Thomas of Llanelli. He was a member of Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, Deal, Kent prior to enlisting on 21 July 1915 into the 1st Battalion, Honourable Artillery Company. He embarked for France at Southampton on 4 December 1915, and joined the battalion on 18 December. The battalion was attached to GHQ Troops, then on 9 July 1916 transferred to 190 Brigade, 63rd (Royal Naval) Division. Martyn was killed at Arras by a shell, the following month, on 10 August 1916. He was 39 years old, and is buried at Bois-De-Noulette British Cemetery, Aix-Noulette, France.

Mawbrey Charles Thomas, Private, M2/079602, Royal Army Service Corps. Mawbrey was born in Haverfordwest, the Son of Caroline Lloyd, later of Garage House, Prospect Place, Llanelli. He enlisted at Swansea into the Royal Army Service Corps, and served with the 593rd Company. Mawbrey was then attached to the XIV Corps Heavy Artillery. He was at Ypres during the spring of 1916 when he took ill and died on 23 June 1916. Mawbrey was buried at Vlamertinghe Military Cemetery, Belgium.

Richard Thomas, Private, 1929, Royal Irish Regiment. Richard was the Son of Mary Ann Thomas, of 5, Old Houses, Penycoedcae, Pontypridd. He probably worked at Llanelli prior to the wear, and enlisted there into the army. Richard was posted to the 5th Battalion, Royal Irish Regiment, which was attached to 29 Brigade, 10th (Irish) Division. On 27 June the Division received orders to prepare for service on Gallipoli, and embarked at Liverpool on 9 July. By the end of the month most units had assembled on Lemnos, and between 6 and 7 August 1915 landed on Gallipoli at Suvla Bay, less the 29th Brigade, which went to ANZAC Cove. The main body made an attack on Chocolate Hill on 7 and 8 August. Parts of 29th Brigade took part in actions on Sari Bair between 6 and 10 August, and Hill 60 later that month. Richard was killed at Sari Bair on 16 August 1915. He was 28 years old, and is commemorated on the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.
Robert George Thomas, Gunner, 261894, Royal Field Artillery. Robert was the Son of John and Emily Thomas, of 25, Cornish Place, New Dock, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Field Artillery, and was posted to India with 89th Battery, Royal Field Artillery. He became ill, and died on 29 October 1918, aged 21. Robert was buried at Nowshera Military Cemetery, but is today commemorated on the Delhi Memorial (India Gate), India.
Robert Newton Thomas, Gunner, 72135, Royal Garrison Artillery. Robert was the Son of John and Ann Thomas, of London House, Llandebie. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Garrison Artillery in February 1916, becoming a Gunner in 182 Siege Battery, RGA. He married Mary Annie Thomas while on leave, at Llandeilo on 26 December 1916, and she moved to 83, Marble Hall Road, Llanelli, where she gave birth to their son, Clifford Newton Thomas, on 21 October 1916. Robert was posted to France on 19 June 1917 with 182 Siege Battery, and was killed in Action on 29 November 1917, during the Third Battle of Ypres. Robert is buried in Menin Road South Military Cemetery, Belgium.

S. Thomas, Private, Welsh Regiment. This man cannot presently be identified.
Thomas Dylan Thomas, Private, 542169, Canadian Infantry. Thomas was born on 18 January 1890, the Son of Mrs. M. A. Thomas, of Llanelli. He lived with his wife, Annie Sabina Thomas, at 48, Aloina Avenue, Toronto prior to the war. He enlisted there on 17 July 1916 into the 75th Battalion (Central Ontario), Canadian Infantry, which was attached to the 11th Canadian Brigade, 4th Canadian Division. Thomas probably joined the battalion in France in time to take part in the Battle of Vimy Ridge in April 1917. He would have fought at Passchendaele later that year. During August 1918 the Canadian Corps took part in the Battle of Amiens, where the fighting spirit of the German army was broken. Thomas was killed here on 22 August 1918, during the great advance. He was 28 years old, and is buried at Hillside Cemetery, Le Quesnel, France. His widow, Annie, later moved back to Wales, and served as a Nurse with the VAD, and lived at Tre-Mor, Mackworth Road, Porthcawl.

Walter Thomas, Private, 4013, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. Walter was the Son of Mary Buchanan, of 42, Miller Street, Londonderry. His ties with Llanelli are unclear, but Walter enlisted at Londonderry into the 2nd Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, which was attached to 12 Brigade, 4th Division. One of the first Divisions to move to France, arriving just in time to join the hard-pressed Divisions of II Corps at The Battle of Le Cateau. They then took part in the epic retreat to the Marne, where the German Offensive was halted, and in the advance to the Aisne. The Division was then moved north to Flanders, and took part in the Battle of Messines. Walter was killed at Messines on 13 November 1914. He was 19 years old, and is buried at Strand Military Cemetery, Belgium.

William Thomas, Private, 4476, Welsh Regiment. William lived at King's Square, Llanelli, and enlisted at Llanelli into the 1/4th Battalion (Carmarthen), Welsh Regiment. The battalion was attached to 159 Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division, and moved to the Mediterranean, sailing from Devonport in July 1915. They arrived at Mudros by 5 August 1915, and from there moved to Gallipoli, landing on 9 August. 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, and then at the Attack on Scimitar Hill. William was killed here on 10 August 1915. He is commemorated on Panel 140-144 of the Helles Memorial, Gallipoli.
William Thomas, First Engineer, Mercantile Marine. William was the Son of William and Mary Thomas, and the Husband of Margaret Thomas (nee Williams), of 32, Lukefield Road, Llanelli. William served as First Engineer aboard the SS Beatrice, a cargo ship owned by Cleeves Western Anthracite Company, Cardiff. He was drowned when Beatrice was torpedoed off Falmouth on 20 July 1917. He was 36 years old, and is commemorated on the Tower Hill Memorial, London.
William Henry Thomas, Private, 13518, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. William was the Son of Mrs. Sarah Thomas, of 143, Sandy Road, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 1st Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which was attached to 22 Brigade, 7th Division. The Division landed at Zeebrugge on 6 October 1914, but the City was falling, and the Division moved to Ypres, where they became the first British Division to hold the city. They fought during the First Battle of Ypres, and helped stop the German advance through Belgium, and in March 1915 fought at the Battle of Neuve Chappelle. During May they fought at the Battle of Aubers Ridge, and at Festubert, before taking part in the Battle of Loos in September. In the summer of 1916, the Division was on the Somme, and took part in the Battle of Albert, where they captured Mametz, one of the few successes of 1 July 1916. They then fought at the Battle of Bazentin, and the Attacks on High Wood. It was here on 14 July 1916 that William was killed. He was 27 years old, and is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial, France.

William John Thomas, Private, 200433, Welsh Regiment. William was born at Llanelli, and had enlisted there into the Welsh Regiment. He had served in France with the 6th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was the Pioneer battalion to the 1st Division. William took ill in France, and came home for treatment, but died on 3 February 1918, aged 19. He is buried at Old Road Church Cemetery, Llanelli.

William Llewellyn Thomas, Private, 34133, South Lancashire Regiment. William was the Son of William Llewellyn Thomas and Martha Thomas, of Wenvoe House, Pentrepoeth, Llanelly. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, but later transferred into the 1/5th Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment, which was part of 166 Brigade, 55th (West Lancashire) Division. The Division moved to France during January 1916, moving to Arras. They moved to the Somme in July 1916, and fought here until relieving the 29th Division at Ypres in October 1916, being stationed near Railway wood. The Division fought at the Third Battle of Ypres from July 1917, and in September moved to positions near Lempire, fighting at the Battle of Cambrai. The Division relieved 42nd (East Lancashire) Division in the front line at Givenchy and Festubert on 15 February 1918, and faced numerous strong enemy raids in March. April was at first much quieter, but it was a lull before the storm, as the Germans launched another offensive here, with the Division taking part in the Battle of Estaires. William was wounded here, and sadly died of wounds on 23 April 1918, aged 41. He is buried at Pernes British Cemetery, France. There is an inscription to his memory on his parents' grave at Felinfoel Churchyard. Many thanks to Emma Lister for the photograph of William.

