Burry Port War Memorial
The Great War, 1914-1918
Hugo Robert Arthur, Private, 4745, Australian Infantry. Hugo was born at Burry Port, the Son of Robert J. Arthur. He had emigrated to Australia with his wife Gladys Blodwen Arthur, just before the war, early in 1914, and set up home at Kensington, NSW. Hugo enlisted at Adelaide on the 1st January, 1917 and joined the 13th Reinforcements of the 43rd Battalion, which embarked at Adelaide on the 23rd June aboard the HMAT Borda bound for England. The Battalion was part of the 11th Brigade, 3rd Australian Division, and Hugo joined them in France on the 18th December, 1917. The Division had just come through the Battles of Third Ypres, and had suffered heavy casualties there. Early in 1918 Hugo broke his ankle, and spent time at Edmonton Military Hospital recovering, therefore missing the terrible time of the German Spring Offensive on the Western Front throughout March and April, 1918. On the 21st July he rejoined his unit on the Somme, where they were preparing to launch a major offensive near Villers Brettoneux, astride the old Roman Road from Amiens to Peronne. Hugo was killed in action here, during the Battle of Amiens, on the 11th August 1918; just days after the Australian Corps had won an impressive Battle at Villers Brettoneux, which proved to be the turning point of the war. He was 32 years old, and is buried at Heath Cemetery, Harbonnieres.
Henry Bannell, Corporal, 7006, Wiltshire Regiment. Henry was born at Salisbury, and resided at Pembrey prior to the war. He enlisted back at Salisbury into the 2nd Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment, which was attached to the 21st Brigade, 7th Division. The Division was formed during September, 1914 and landed at Zeebrugge on the 6th October, 1914. The City was already falling however, and so the Division was 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. The Division took part in the initial assault north of the Vermelles-Hulluch road, facing the Quarries and a series of strongpoints. Suffering badly from British cloud gas, which was not moved sufficiently by the gentle breeze, and badly cut up by German machine gun fire and artillery, the Division nonetheless seized the Quarries and only failed to penetrate the third German line due to the relative weakness of the numbers of men that got through. In the summer of 1916, the Division were on the Somme, and took part in the Battle of Albert, where they captured Mametz, one of the few successes of the 1st July 1916. They then fought at the Battle of Bazentin, where Henry was killed in action on the 8th July, 1916. He is buried at Bernafay Wood British Cemetery, Montauban.
Richard Bevan, M.M., Corporal, 45950, Welsh Regiment. Richard was born at Neath, and resided at Burry Port prior to the war. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 2nd Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was attached to the 3rd 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. The following year saw them in action again at the Battle of Aubers, before moving South to Loos, where they fought during the Battle of Loos, and the action at the Hohenzollern redoubt. Again they were required for a major offensive, moving South to the Somme, where they fought during the opening of the Somme Offensive at the Battle of Albert, then at Bazentin, Pozieres, Flers-Courcelette and Morval. They followed the German retreat to the Hindenburg Line in early 1917, and were then briefed for an operation on the Flanders Coast, and moved there during the Summer of 1917. While training on the coast, the Battle of Third Ypres had stalled in the mire, and the Division were recalled to Ypres, where they fought at the Second Battle of Passchendaele. After spending another Winter in Flanders, they were near Estaires when the German Spring Offensive caught them, fighting through the Battles of Estaires, Hazebrouck, and Bethune before being moved South again to Arras, fighting at the Battle of Drocourt-Queant, and at the Battle of Epehy, after the tide had been turned in the favour of the Allies. The Division pushed on towards the St. Quentin Canal, where 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.
Sidney Bowen, Ordinary Seaman, J/71871, Royal Navy. Sidney was born in Llanelli, and served with the Royal Navy aboard H.M.S. Contest. She was a K-Class Destroyer that served with the Grand Fleet, and was torpedoed by a German Submarine on the 18th September, 1917 in the North Sea. Sidney died aboard her in the sinking, and is remembered on the Plymouth Naval Memorial, Panel 21.
George Bradley, Private, 306557, Royal Warwickshire Regiment. George was the Son of Mr and Mrs George Bradley, of Lincoln. He resided at Burry Port prior to the war, and enlisted at Pembrey into the 1/8th Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment, attached to the 143rd Brigade, 48th (South Midland) Division. The Division moved to France between the 22nd March and the 1st April 1915, and saw its first major engagement at the opening of the Battle of the Somme, holding the line between the 56th (London) and the 31st Divisions, both of which were heavily engaged at Gommecourt and Serre respectively. Two of the battalions of the Division attacked on 1 July 1916, and suffered heavy casualties. They then went into action at the Battle of Bazentin, during the second phase of the Battle of the Somme, and captured Ovillers. They also fought at the Battle of Pozieres and the Battle of the Ancre. In March, 1917 they followed the German Retreat to the Hindenburg Line, and later in the year fought at Third Ypres, at the Battle of Langemarck, the Battle of the Polygon Wood, the Battle of Broodseinde and the Battle of Poelcapelle. The Division was ordered to Italy on 21st November 1917, where it remained for the duration of the war, taking part in actions on the Asiago Plateau- the Battle of Asiago and the Advance from Asiago, with the infantry of 143rd Brigade becoming the first British soldiers to enter the home territory of the Central Powers. George was killed in action here on the 15th June, 1918 during the Battle of The Piave River. He was 30 years old and is buried at Magnaboschi British Cemetery, Italy. Not on Memorial.
Alan Cuthbert Calvert, Sapper, 586, Royal Engineers. Alan was the Son of Charles James and Elizabeth Calvert, of 1, Belgrave Villas, Bath. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Engineers, and was posted to the 1/1st Welsh Field Company. Alan was killed in action at Gallipoli, during the Defence of Helles, on the 8th September, 1915 aged 25, and is buried at Green Hill Cemetery, Gallipoli in Grave Ref. II.A.3.Not on Memorial, but listed as Burry Port on CROH.
Walter Camp, Private, G/21235, Royal West Kent Regiment. Walter was the Son of John and Dona Camp, of Pwll, and enlisted at Llanelli into the Monmouth Regiment. He later transferred into the 10th Battalion, Royal West Kent Regiment, attached to the 123rd Brigade, 41st Division. This Division was formed in September 1915, and moved to France by 6th May 1916, concentrating near Steenwerck, where they began familiarisation with trench warfare in the areas of Ploegsteert and the Douve valley, south of Ypres. They remained here until August 1916, when they moved to the Somme, and took part in the Battle of Flers-Courcelette. The Division remained in the line, pushing on to Courcelette over the next few days before coming out for a rest and re-fit. They then fought at the Battle of Le Transloy, before moving to positions south of Ypres in 1917. Here they took part in the Battle of Messines, before moving further north, where they fought at the Battle of Pilckem, and the Battle of the Menin Road, as part of the Third Battle of Ypres. The Division was selected as one of five British Divisions to be moved to Italy, as part of a reinforcement action taken by the Allies following a disastrous defeat of the Italian Army at Caporetto. The Company arrived at Mantua on the 17th November 1917, where they held a part of the line on the River Piave, however, the crisis had passed and the Division was hurried back to the Western Front in early March 1918. They then faced the German Spring Offensive of the 21st March, 1918, and fought at the Battle of St Quentin, and retreated westwards, fighting at the First Battle of Bapaume. They also then fought at the First Battle of Arras, before being withdrawn, and sent north to Flanders where it held a sector near Ypres that was, for once, relatively quiet. Here they took part in the Advance in Flanders, and the Battle of Ypres 1918, before moving on to fight at the Battle of Courtrai, and the subsequent Action of Ooteghem. Walter was wounded during these final actions of the war, and was evacuated to the Base Hospital at Wimille, where he sadly died of wounds on the 19th November, 1918. He was just 20 years old, and is buried at Terlincthun British Cemetery, Wimille.
Cecil Richard Trevor Chard, Lance Sergeant, 8791, South Staffordshire Regiment. Cecil was born at Burry Port, and enlisted at Walsall into the 1/5th Battalion, South Staffordshire Regiment. The Battalion was attached to the137th Brigade, 46th (North Midland) Division. It moved to France between the 23rd to the 28th February 1915, and saw its first action at the Hohenzollern Redoubt near Loos. The Division suffered large numbers of casualties during the attack, which was its first large-scale action. Cecil was one of the many casualties here, killed in action on the 13th October, 1915. He has no known grave, and so is remembered on the Loos Memorial, France. Not on Memorial.
John Charles, Private, 5549, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. John was born at Burry Port, and enlisted at Tonypandy into the 1st Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. They were attached to the 22nd Brigade, 7th Division, landed at Zeebrugge on the 6th October, 1914. The City was already falling however, and so the Division was 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, where John was killed in action on the 16th May, 1915. He has no known grave and so is remembered on the Le Touret Memorial, Richebourg L'Avoue.
Ernest Newton Cole, Private, 14479, South Wales Borderers. Ernest was the Son of George and Mrs. E. M. Cole, of 2, Tyle Leg, Garden Suburb, Burry Port. Ernest enlisted at Llanelli into the 5th Battalion, South Wales Borderers, attached to the 58th Brigade, 19th (Western) Division. The Division assembled around Bulford during September 1914. Divisional training was completed near Tidworth, from March 1915, and the Butterfly Division crossed to France between the 11th and the 21st July 1915, and moved to positions near Loos. The Division fought during the opening attack of the Battle of Loos, and then moved to the Somme, where they took part in the second wave of the attack on Ovillers-La Boiselle on the 1st July, capturing the village at heavy cost, and fought through the Somme Battles of Pozieres and the Ancre in 1916. They then moved North to Ypres, taking part in the Battle of Messines, and fought on the Menin Road and at Polygon Wood, before moving up to Broodseinde, Poelcapelle and Passchendaele Village itself. 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, where Ernest was killed in action on the 11th April, 1918, aged 29. He has no known grave, and so is remembered on the Tyne Cot Memorial.
James Stanley Cole, Private, 282295, Lancashire Fusiliers. James was the Son of Thomas and Edith Mary Cole, of Carne Mountain, Begelly, and resided at Burry Port prior to the war. He served with the 2nd/ 7th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers, attached to the 197th Brigade, 66th Division. The Division concentrated on the Western Front by 16th March 1917 and moved to the Flanders Coast. At the end of September, 1917 they moved to Ypres, and took part in the Battle of Poelcapelle. James was killed in action here on the 18th November, 1917. He was 27 years old, and is buried at Dochy Farm New British Cemetery, Belgium. Not on Memorial.
Victor James Cole, M.S.M., Acting Lance Corporal, WR/178798, Royal Engineers. Victor was the Son of George and Elizabeth Cole, and the Husband of Margaret Cole, of 5, Dolan Road, New Dock, Llanelli. He enlisted at Carmarthen into the Pembroke Yeomanry, and later transferred into the Railways Division, Royal Engineers. The RE Railway workers served on the Western Front throughout the whole of the war, often in close proximity to the front. Victor was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal at some time here, but was wounded in 1918 and came home for treatment. He sadly died of wounds on the 27th September 1918, aged 28, and is buried at Llanelli (Box) Cemetery.
Reginald Lingard Collins, Private, 282352, Lancashire Fusiliers. Reginald was the Son of Mr. and Mrs. Augustus Charles Collins, of "Lilybank", 57, Pencoed Road, Burry Port, and the Husband of Lilian Collins. He enlisted at Trealaw into the 2/7th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers, which was a Territorial unit attached to the 197th Brigade, 66th (2nd East Lancs.) Division. The Division concentrated on the Western Front by 16th March 1917 and moved to Flanders, and sadly Reginald was killed soon after. He was 23 years old, and is buried at Gorre British & Indian Cemetery, France.
Frederick Daniel, Bombardier, 120565, Royal Field Artillery. Frederick was the Son of Mrs. Lewis Williams, of 65, Stepney Road, Burry Port. He enlisted at Finsbury into the Royal Field Artillery, and moved to France attached to their 24th Battery, 38th Brigade, attached to the 6th Division. On the 10th September, 1914 the Division landed at St Nazaire and proceeded to the Western Front, and arrived in time to reinforce the hard-pressed BEF on the Aisne, before the whole army was moved north into Flanders. Here they took part in the Action of Hooge during June, 1915, and in 1916 moved to the Somme, where the Division fought at the Battle of Flers-Courcelette, the Battle of Morval and the Battle of Le Transloy. The following year saw them at Arras, where they fought at the Battle of Hill 70, which is where Frederick was killed, on the 1st October, 1917. He was 28 years old and is buried at Brandhoek New Military Cemetery No. 3, Belgium. Not on Memorial.
Ralph Picton Daniel, Captain, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Ralph served with the 17th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which was attached to the 115th 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 the 7th July, but met with fierce resistance, and it took until the 14th July to 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 Pilckem Ridge, and it was here that Ralph was killed in action on the 31st July, 1917. He is buried at Artillery Wood Cemetery, Belgium.
Albert Owen Davies, Signaller, Z/1094, Royal Navy. Albert was born on the 22nd August, 1882, the Son of William and Jane Davies, of Burry Port. He served in the Royal Navy aboard the Destroyer H.M.S. Paladin. Albert sadly died ashore from sickness on the 2nd December, 1917 aged 29, and is buried at Burry Port (Tabernacle) Baptist Chapelyard.
Samuel John Davies, Private, 20061, Welsh Regiment. Samuel was born at Pembrey, and enlisted at Llanelli into the 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. Te Battalion was formed as the Carmarthen Battalion, and was attached to the 114th 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 the 7th July, but met with fierce resistance, and it took until the 14th July to clear the wood. The Division suffered terrible casualties at Mametz, and were taken out of the line, and moved to Ypres to rebuild. Samuel had been wounded at Mametz Wood, and transferred to the Base Hospital at Abbeville, on the mouth of the Somme River. He died of wounds here on the 21st July, 1917 and is buried there at Abbeville Communal Cemetery.
David Edmunds, Master, Mercantile Marine. David was born at Burry Port, and served in the Mercantile Marine as Master of the SS Tangistan. Tangistan SS was a 3,738grt, British Merchant ship. On the 9th March 1915 when 9 miles north of Flamborough Head, she was torpedoed without warning by the German submarine U-12 and sunk. Thirty lives were lost including David. He was 44 years old and is remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial, London. She was on route from Benisaf to the Tees.
David Gwynne Edmunds, Captain, Welsh Regiment. David was the Son of William Price Edmunds and Elizabeth A. Edmunds, of Anchor House, Burry Port, and served with the 18th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. The Battalion was attached to the 119th Brigade, 40th (Bantam) Division, which was formed between September and December 1915, composed of bantam units and others which had a mixture of regulation-height and shorter men. Weeding out of very under-sized or unfit men delayed the training programme, and it was not until late Spring 1916 that the Division was ready to proceed on active service. The Division moved to France between the 1st and 9th June, and moved to the front near Loos. Late in 1916 they moved south to the Somme, and fought at the Battle of the Ancre, and remained in the area over the winter. In March, 1917 the Germans withdrew to their shortened line, called the Hindenburg Line, and the 40th Division were one of the Divisions that followed the withdrawal. Later in the year they took part in the Battle of Cambrai, playing an important role in the attack on Bourlon Wood. David was killed at Cambrai on the 25th November, 1917 aged just 21. He has no known grave, and so is remembered on the Cambrai Memorial, Louverval.
J. Emery, Steward, Mercantile Marine. Very little is known of this man, but he died on the 2nd January, 1918 and is buried at Pembrey (St. Illtyd) Churchyard. He served in the Mercantile Marine aboard the SS Kingsley.
David Brynmor Chiles-Evans, D.S.O., M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., Lieutenant-Colonel, Royal Army Medical Corps. David was the Medical Officer of the 1st Battalion, West Yorkshire Regiment, which was attached to the 18th Brigade, 6th Division. On the 10th September, 1914 it landed at St Nazaire and proceeded to the Western Front, and arrived in time to reinforce the hard-pressed BEF on the Aisne, before the whole army was moved north into Flanders. Here they took part in the Action of Hooge during June, 1915. David was the medical Officer that examined the detainee Private Harry Farr of the 1st West York’s early in 1916, after he had twice been treated for being ‘nervy’. Harry was subsequently executed for Cowardice, a sentence which has only in recent years been rescinded, and a full pardon given him. In 1916 the Division were on the Somme, and David was wounded here, at Ginchy, on the 17th September, 1916 but returned to duty. The following year saw the Division at Arras, where they fought at the Battle of Hill 70. David was killed during this time, on the 23rd April, 1917. He is buried at Bethune Town Cemetery, France.
William Evans, Lance Corporal, 39848, Welsh Regiment. William was the Son of John and Ann Evans, of 41, Pencoed Road, Burry Port, and enlisted at Swansea into the 8th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. The Battalion were attached to the 40th Brigade, 13th (Western) Division. On the 13th June, 1915 the first transports carrying the Division left port, and moved to Alexandria. By the 4th July, all units had moved to Mudros, preparatory for landing on Gallipoli. Between the 6th and 16th July, 1915 the Divisional infantry landed on Cape Helles and relieved the 29th Division. They left and returned to Mudros at the end of the month, and the entire Division landed at ANZAC Cove between the 3rd and 5th August, 1915, taking part in the Battles of Sari Bair, Russell's Top, and Hill 60, ANZAC. Soon afterwards the Division was transferred from ANZAC to Suvla Bay, and it was evacuated from Suvla on the 19th December 1915, whereupon the infantry moved after a weeks rest to the Helles bridgehead, where they faced the last Turkish attacks at Helles. On the 8th January 1916, the Division was evacuated from Helles, and by the 31st January was concentrated at Port Said, where they held forward posts in the Suez Canal defences. On the 12th 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. By the 27th March, the Division had assembled near Sheikh Saad and came under orders of the Tigris Corps, and then took part in the attempts to relieve Kut. However, after these efforts failed and Kut fell, the British force in the theatre was built up and reorganised. William died of sickness in Mesopotamia on the 15th July, 1916. He was just 21 years old, and is buried at Amara War Cemetery.
Tom Charles Fuller, Private, 7719, Welsh Regiment. Tom was the Son of Clement and Lizzie Fuller, of Swansea. He is listed as residing at Ystradgynlais prior to enlisting into the 2nd Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was part of the 3rd 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, and it was here that Tom was probably wounded. He was moved to the Base Hospital at Wimereux where he sadly died of wounds on the 7th November, 1914 aged 32. Tom is buried there at Wimereux Communal Cemetery.
Adam Gillespie, Sapper, 158291, Royal Engineers. Adam was the Son of John and Mary Gillespie, of Drumlemble, Campbeltown, and resided at Burry Port prior to the war. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Engineers, and was posted to the 257th Tunnelling Company. This Tunnelling Company was involved in mining operations in the Neuve Chappelle area early in 1917, and this is where Adam died, aged 38, on the 1st March, 1917. He is buried at La Gorgue Communal Cemetery, France.
Joseph Gower, Private, 72987, Kings Liverpool Regiment. Joseph was the Son of David and Hannah Gower, of 4, East Cottages, Burry Port, and enlisted there into the Welsh Regiment. He subsequently transferred into the 1st Battalion, Kings Liverpool Regiment, which was part of the 6th Brigade, 2nd Division. One of the first Divisions to move to France, the 2nd Division remained on the Western Front throughout the war. They moved to Belgium, where they fought at the Battle of Mons, and retreating southwards, fought at the Affair of Landrecies, the Rearguard Actions of Villers-Cotterets, and at the Battle of the Marne where the German offensive was stopped. The Germans retreated north, and the BEF met them, fighting at the Battle of the Aisne. The 2nd Division were then moved to Flanders, where they fought at the First Battle of Ypres, when the German sweep through Flanders was stopped, and remained there throughout the first winter of the war. In 1915 they took part in the Battle of Festubert, and in September fought at the Battle of Loos, and subsequent Action of Hohenzollern Redoubt. In the summer of 1916 the Division were on the Somme, and took part in the Battle of Delville Wood and the Battle of the Ancre, and the ensuing Operations on the Ancre. In March, 1917 the Division followed the German Retreat to the Hindenburg Line, and in April they fought at Arras, during the First Battle of the Scarpe, the Battle of Arleux and the Third Battle of the Scarpe. Their next major action was at the Battle of Cambrai, and they were still in the area in March, 1918 when the Germans launched their Spring Offensive on the Somme. The Division were caught up in the Battle of St Quentin, and the First Battle of Bapaume, and retreated back, fighting at the First Battle of Arras. In August they took part in the launching of the great offensive, and fought in the Battle of Albert, which is where Joseph was killed in action, aged 22, on the 25th August, 1918. He has no known grave, and so is remembered on the Vis-En-Artois Memorial, France.
Frank Griffiths, Sapper, 204515, Royal Engineers. Frank was born in Burry Port, the Son of David J. G. and Caroline Griffiths, later of 32, Hedley Terrace, Llanelli. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 134th Army Troops Company, Royal Engineers. The Army Troops Companies were established similar to Field Companies, but for behind-the-lines bridging and water work. Frank was at Ypres during the Battle of Passchendaele, when he was killed in action on the 4th October, 1917. He was just 20 years old, and is buried at Canada Farm Cemetery. Not on Memorial.
Trevor Griffiths, Gunner, 161221, Royal Garrison Artillery. Trevor was born at Burry Port, and enlisted at Llanelli into the Royal Garrison Artillery, serving with their 133rd Siege Battery. Trevor was killed in action during the Battle of the Menin Road, on the 24th September, 1917. He is buried at Menin Road South Military Cemetery, Belgium.
Thomas John Hawkins, Private, 10895, Welsh Regiment. Thomas was the Son of Harry and Martha Jane Hawkins, of 50, Spring Gardens, Burry Port. He enlisted at Pontypridd into the 2nd Battalion, Welsh regiment, which was attached to the 3rd 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, and Thomas was killed there, during the Actions on the Aisne Heights, on the 19th September, 1914. He was 21 years old, and is buried at Braine Communal Cemetery, France.
Charles Edward Hewitt, Private, T/3269, East Kent Regiment (The Buffs). Charles was born in Derbyshire, and resided at Burry Port prior to the war. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 5th Battalion, Worcester Regiment, but later transferred into the 5th Battalion, East Kent Regiment. The Battalion embarked on the 29th October, 1914 to India as part of the Home Counties Division. The Division was broken up on arrival in Bombay, and the Battalion joined the Jubbulpore Brigade in 5th (Mhow) Division. In November 1915 it transferred to the 35th Brigade in 7th (Meerut) Division in Mesopotamia. Charles died in Mesopotamia on the 27th April, 1916. He is buried at Amara War Cemetery.
Stapleton Hollett, Sergeant, 14729, Grenadier Guards. Stapleton was the Son of Mrs. A. Hollett, of Elm Tree Cottage, Hook Green, Meopham, Kent. He enlisted at Chatham into the 3rd Battalion, Grenadier Guards, and moved to France, landing at Le Havre on the 27th July, 1915. Here the Battalion became part of the newly formed Guards Division, joining the 2nd Guards Brigade. The various Guards units that had been with other Divisions were withdrawn to be brought together to create this fine formation. It remained on the Western Front throughout the war and saw its first major action during the Battle of Loos on the 25th September, 1915, remaining in the area during the coming months, where they also fought in the subsequent Action of Hohenzollern Redoubt. In July, 1916 the Division moved to the Somme, where they fought at the Battle of Flers-Courcelette, and then at the Battle of Morval, capturing Lesboeufs Village. They remained here for the winter, and 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, where they fought at the Battle of the Pilckem, and then at the Battle of the Menin Road, the Battle of Poelcapelle and the First Battle of Passchendaele. November saw them move south again, where they took part in the Battle of Cambrai. Stapleton was killed in action here on the 27th November, 1917. He was 27 years old, and is remembered on the Cambrai Memorial, Louverval. He is not named on the Memorial, but the CROH names a Guardsman Hollett as from Burry Port, and this is the only man of this name.
William Frank Howe, Private, 83080, Royal Fusiliers. William was the Son of William Dudley Howe and Ada Amelia Howe, of 11, Glanmor Terrace, Burry Port. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Training Reserve, and was then posted to the 3rd Battalion, Royal Fusiliers. William must have been among a batch of reinforcements after the 15th July, 1918 to the 149th Brigade, 50th Division. After suffering particularly heavy casualties while on the Aisne, the Division had been substantially reorganised. William was killed in action during the Battle of Amiens, on the 11th August, 1918. He was just 19 years old, and is buried at Dive Copse British Cemetery, Sailly-Le-Sec, France.
David Walter Hughes, Private, 23531, Dorsetshire Regiment. David was the Son of John and Margaret Hughes, of 25, Old Castle Rd., Llanelli, and the Husband of Henrietta Griffiths (formerly Hughes), of Goring Villa, 21, Ellington Rd., Burry Port. David had been an Ironmonger's Assistant prior to enlisting at Llanelli into the 6th Battalion, Dorsetshire Regiment. The Battalion was attached to the 50th Brigade, 17th (Northern) Division, which had been in France since 17th July 1915. 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, and faced the German Spring Offensive there, fighting at the Battle of St Quentin, and retreated back, fighting at the First Battle of Bapaume. After a period out of the line to rest and rebuild, the Division moved to the southernmost sector of the Somme area, where they fought at the Battle of Amiens on the 8th August, 1918, a day which saw the war swing in the favour of the Allies. The Allies then advanced on the Somme, and the Division fought at the Battle of Albert later that month. It was here that David was killed in action on the 24th August, 1918. He was 26 years old, and is buried at Mill Road Cemetery, Thiepval.
Sidney Isaac, Private, 19871, Welsh Regiment. Sidney was born at Pembrey, and enlisted at Llanelli into the 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. The Battalion formed as the Carmarthenshire Battalion, and became part of the 114th 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 the 7th July, but met with fierce resistance, and it took until the 14th July to clear the wood. Sidney was killed in action at Mametz Wood on the 10th July, 1916. He has no known grave, and so is remembered on the Thiepval Memorial, France.
Joseph Henry James, Private, 201642, Royal Berkshire Regiment. Joseph was born at Steventon, Berkshire, and resided at Burry Port prior to the war. He enlisted at Abingdon into the 2nd Battalion, Royal Berkshire Regiment, which was attached to the 25th Brigade, 8th Division. The 8th Division was formed during October 1914, by the bringing together of regular army units from various points around the British Empire. The Division 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 Chappelle, 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. In March, 1918 the Division were on the southern end of the Somme, and here met the German Offensive head on, at the Battle of St Quentin. Joseph was killed in action here on the 2nd April, 1918. He has no known grave, and so is remembered on the Pozieres Memorial, France.
Cadvan Francis Jones, Private, 131069, Machine Gun Corps. Cadvan was the Son of David Francis and Ann Jones, of Pentre Ystrad (Rhondda), and the Husband of Elizabeth Mary Jones, of 9, Williams Terrace, Burry Port. He had originally enlisted at Llanelli into the Welsh Regiment, and had later been transferred into the Machine Gun Corps. Cadvan was killed in action during the Battle of Albert on the 27th August, 1918. He was 29 years old and is buried at Fienvillers British Cemetery.
George Albert Lewis, Private, 1895, Welsh Guards. George was the Son of John and Sarah Lewis, of 40, Station Rd., Burry Port. His details with the CWGC state that he was originally rejected as "unfit", and underwent an operation in Llanelli Hospital to render himself "fit". George then enlisted into the 1st Battalion, Welsh Guards, attached to the 3rd Brigade, Guards Division. This Division has the distinction of being formed in France in August 1915. The various Guards units that had been with other Divisions were withdrawn to be brought together to create this fine formation. It remained on the Western Front throughout the war and saw its first major action during the Battle of Loos on the 25th September, 1915, remaining in the area during the coming months, where they also fought in the subsequent Action of Hohenzollern Redoubt. They then spent a brief period at Ypres, and George was soon wounded. He died of wounds on the 22nd March, 1916 and is buried at Brandhoek Military Cemetery, Belgium.
Isaac Lewis, Private, 12678, South Wales Borderers. Isaac was born at Pwll, and enlisted at Llanelli into the 1st Battalion, South Wales Borderers. The Battalion was attached to the 3rd Brigade, 1st Division, which 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, before moving South to Loos, where they fought during the Battle of Loos, and the action at the Hohenzollern redoubt. Isaac was killed in action during the following months in the line at Loos, on the 29th June, 1916, and is buried at Bully-Grenay Communal Cemetery, British Extension, France.
Ivor Idris Lewis, Private, 20853, Welsh Regiment. Ivor was born at Burry Port, the Son of Theophilus and Catherine Lewis, later of Rostella, Pontyates. He enlisted at Llanelli into the 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. This was the Carmarthen Battalion, and became part of the 114th 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 the 7th July, but met with fierce resistance, and it took until the 14th July to 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 Pilckem, where Ivor was wounded. He died of wounds on the 1st August, 1917 aged 23, and is buried at Brandhoek New Military Cemetery, Belgium.
Thomas Llewellyn McFadden, Second Mate, Mercantile Marine. Thomas was born at Mostyn, North Wales the Son of James and Mary Ann McFadden, later of 40, Sandfield Row, Burry Port. Thomas served in the Mercantile Marine aboard the SS Framfield. Little is known about the ship, except that it struck a German mine and sank on the 24th October, 1916. Thomas drowned aboard her that day aged 23, and is remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial, London.
William John Morgan, Private, 73779, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. William was born at Burry Port, and enlisted at Llanelli into the 14th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, which was attached to the 113th 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 the 7th July, but met with fierce resistance, and it took until the 14th July to 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 Pilckem and Langemarck, then moved to Armentieres, where they remained from September 1917 until March, 1918 when the German Spring Offensive was launched. The British had been over-run on the Somme, and so in April the Division was moved south, taking up positions North of Albert, from where they weathered the storm of the coming months, until the war turned during the Battle of Amiens, on the 8th August, 1918. The Germans had now lost the upper hand, and the British regained the lost ground on the Somme after an attack which began on the 21st August, with the 38th Welsh in the midst of the attack during the Battle of Albert, and then moving east, where they fought at the Battle of Bapaume. Then the move began towards the mighty Hindenburg Line, and the Division carried on with their march east, fighting at the Battle of Havrincourt, and the Battle of Epehy. A short rest period ensued, during which time the Canal du Nord was breached, so opening a passage through the Hindenburg Line. The Division then fought at the Battle of Beaurevoir, where William was killed in action on the 7th October, 1918. He is buried at Bois-Des-Angles British Cemetery, Crevecouer-Sur-L'Escaut.
John Mycock, Able Seaman, R/4176, Royal Naval Division. John was born on the 11th March, 1894, the Husband of Rachel Ann Mycock, of 119 Pencoed Road, Burry Port. He served with the Nelson Battalion, which was part of the 189th Brigade, 63rd (Royal Naval) Division. The Naval Brigades were originally sent to Antwerp and Dunkirk in September and October, 1914 to guard against invasion by the Germans. However Antwerp fell to the Germans soon after, and so many of the RND units were withdrawn to England. After a lengthy period of refit and training the Division moved to Egypt preparatory to the Gallipoli campaign. Landing on the 25th April, 1915 the Division was soon transferred from the authority of the Admiralty to the War Office on 29th April 1916, and was redesignated the 63rd (Royal Naval) Division on the 19th July, 1916. The Division moved to France, arriving at Marseilles between the 12th and 23rd May, 1916 and moved to positions on the Somme, where it took part in the Battle of the Ancre, and the resulting Operations on the Ancre. In April, 1917 the Division were at Arras, and fought at the Second Battle of the Scarpe, where they captured Gavrelle. They then fought at the Battle of Arleux, before moving north to Ypres, where they took part in the Second Battle of Passchendaele. Their next major action was at Cambrai, during the Action of Welsh Ridge, which is where John was killed on the 31st December, 1917. He was 23 years old, and is buried at Marcoing British Cemetery.
James Northey, D.C.M., Sergeant, 9563, Welsh Regiment. James was the Son of John Northey of Gelli Ystrad, and the Husband of Beatrice Jane Aston (formerly Northey), of 9, Colby Rd., Achddu, Burry Port. He had enlisted at Cardiff into the 2nd Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was attached to the 3rd 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. The following year saw them in action again at the Battle of Aubers, before moving South to Loos, where they fought during the Battle of Loos, and the action at the Hohenzollern redoubt. Again they were required for a major offensive, moving south to the Somme, where they fought during the opening of the Somme Offensive at the Battle of Albert, then at Bazentin, Pozieres, Flers-Courcelette and Morval. James was wounded on the Somme, and brought back to the Army Hospital at Merthyr, where he died of wounds on the 8th October, 1916. He was 35 years old, and is buried at Merthyr Tydfil (Beech Grove) Cemetery. James had been awarded his Distinguished Conduct Medal for gallantry at Ypres. The Citation read ‘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)’. Not on Memorial.
Herbert Samuel James Owen, Private, 19883, Welsh Regiment. Herbert was the Son of Charles H. and Annie Owen, of 8, Sors Road, Burry Port. He enlisted in November, 1915 into the 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which became part of the 114th 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 the 7th July, but met with fierce resistance, and it took until the 14th July to clear the wood. The Division suffered terrible casualties at Mametz, and were taken out of the line, and moved to Ypres to rebuild. Herbert was killed in action in Flanders on the 7th June, 1917. He was 23 years old, and is remembered on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Belgium.
William Perrin, Gunner, 203342, Royal Field Artillery. William was the Son of James and Malita Perrin, of The Bungalow, Derwydd, Burry Port. He enlisted at Pembrey into the Royal Field Artillery, and was posted to the 505th Battery, 65th Brigade. William was killed in action during Third Ypres, the Battle of Passchendaele, on the 3rd October, 1917. He was 22 years old, and is remembered on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium.
Lemuel Price, Private, 201543, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Lemuel was the Son of James and Elizabeth Price, of 60, Pencoed Road, Burry Port. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Welsh Regiment, but later transferred into the 19th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, who were attached to the 110th Brigade, 40th (Bantam) Division. This Division was formed between September and December 1915, composed of bantam units and others which had a mixture of regulation-height and shorter men. Weeding out of very under-sized or unfit men delayed the training programme, and it was not until late spring 1916 that the Division was ready to proceed on active service. The Division moved to France between the 1st and 9th June, and moved to the front near Loos. Late in 1916 they moved south to the Somme, and fought at the Battle of the Ancre, and remained in the area over the winter. In March, 1917 the Germans withdrew to their shortened line, called the Hindenburg Line, and the 40th Division were one of the Divisions that followed the withdrawal. Lemuel was wounded whilst the Battalion were in the line, and died of wounds on the 11th August, 1917. He was 32 years old, and is buried at Rocquigny-Equancourt Road British Cemetery, Manancourt.
Richard Price, Private, 5089, Welsh Regiment. Richard was born at Pembrey, and enlisted at Llanelli into the 1/4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. The Battalion was formed at Carmarthen during August, 1914 and became attached to the 159th Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division. The Division moved to the Mediterranean, sailing from Devonport in July, 1915 arriving at Mudros by the 5th August, 1915. From here they moved to Gallipoli, landing on the 9th August. 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. Richard was wounded at Gallipoli and evacuated to Mudros Island for treatment. He sadly died of wounds on the 23rd August, 1915 and is buried at East Mudros Military Cemetery.
Frederick Thomas Randell, Gunner, 124099, Royal Garrison Artillery. Frederick was the Son of Charles Thomas Randell, of 82, Elkingon Road, Burry Port, and he enlisted there into the Royal Garrison Artillery. Frederick was posted to the 33rd Siege Battery, and moved to the Western Front. He was wounded during the Battle of Arras (The Battle of Hill 70), and died of wounds on the 14th August, 1917. He is buried at Noeux-Les-Mines Communal Cemetery, France.
Albert Rees, Private, 4641, Pembroke Yeomanry. Albert was the Son of W. and Elizabeth Rees, of 37, Cliff Terrace, Ashburnham Road, Burry Port. He served with the Pembroke Yeomanry, which was attached to the 1st Mounted Division. Albert didn’t get the chance to go overseas with the Battalion, and instead died at home of sickness on the 16th June, 1915. He was just 19 years old, and is buried at Pembrey (St. Illtyd) Churchyard.
David Edmunds Rees, Engineer, Mercantile Marine. David was the Son of David and Mary Rees. He served in the Mercantile Marine aboard the SS Camelata, and he was killed aboard her when she was torpedoed and sunk by a German Submarine on the 2nd May, 1917. David was 24 years old, and is remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial, London.
George James Rees, Private, 40010, Welsh Regiment. George was the Son of Evan and Hannah Rees, of 18, Silver Row, Burry Port, and he enlisted at Llanelli into the 2nd Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was attached to the 3rd 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. The following year saw them in action again at the Battle of Aubers, before moving South to Loos, where they fought during the Battle of Loos, and the action at the Hohenzollern redoubt. Again they were required for a major offensive, moving south to the Somme, where they fought during the opening of the Somme Offensive at the Battle of Albert, then at Bazentin, Pozieres, and Flers-Courcelette. George was killed in action around this time, on the 24th August, 1916. He was 24 years old, and is remembered on the Thiepval Memorial, France.
John Rees, Lance Corporal, 5297, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. John was born at Burry Port, and he enlisted at Liverpool into the 1st Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. The Battalion were in India at the outbreak of war, and quickly returned to the UK, landing at Southampton on the 3rd September, 1914. Here they were attached to the 22nd Brigade, 7th Division and landed at Zeebrugge on the 6th October, 1914. The City was already falling however, and so the Division was 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. The Division took part in the initial assault north of the Vermelles-Hulluch road, in the sector facing the Quarries and a series of strongpoints. Suffering badly from British cloud gas, which was not moved sufficiently by the gentle breeze, and badly cut up by German machine gun fire and artillery, the Division nonetheless seized the Quarries and only failed to penetrate the third German line due to the relative weakness of the numbers of men that got through. John was killed in action at Loos on the 25th September, 1915, and is remembered on the Loos Memorial. Not on Memorial.
Thomas Rees, Private, 13157, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Thomas was the Son of John and Jane Rees, of 15, Williams Terrace, Burry Port, and he enlisted at Llanelli into the 9th Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers. The Battalion was attached to the 58th Brigade, 19th (Western) Division, which crossed to France between the 11th and the 21st July 1915, and moved to positions near Loos. Here they took part in the Battle of Loos, which is where Thomas was killed on the 25th September, 1915. He was 29 years old, and is remembered on the Loos Memorial.
William Roberts, Private, 202701, Welsh Regiment. William was the Son of Thomas and Margaret Roberts, of Brynhydref, Park Terrace, Burry Port. He enlisted at Carmarthen into the 15th Battalion, Welsh Regiment, which was attached to the 114th 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 the 7th July, but met with fierce resistance, and it took until the 14th July to 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 Pilckem and Langemarck, then moved to Armentieres, where they remained from September 1917 until March, 1918 when the German Spring Offensive was launched. The British had been over-run on the Somme, and so in April the Division was moved south, taking up positions North of Albert, from where they weathered the storm of the coming months, until the war turned during the Battle of Amiens, on the 8th August, 1918. The Germans had now lost the upper hand, and the British regained the lost ground on the Somme after an attack which began on the 21st August, with the 38th Welsh in the midst of the attack during the Battle of Albert. William was killed in action less than a week into the advance, on the 26th August, 1918. He was 28 years old and is remembered on the Vis-En-Artois Memorial, France.
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 the 159th Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division, and sailed from Devonport in July, 1915 arriving at Mudros by the 5th August, 1915. From here they moved to Gallipoli, landing on the 9th August. 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 the 10th 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 the 1st 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 the 1st Brigade, Guards Division. This Division has the distinction of being formed in France in August 1915. The various Guards units that had been with other Divisions were withdrawn to be brought together to create this fine formation. It remained on the Western Front throughout the war and saw its first major action during the Battle of Loos on the 25th September, 1915, remaining in the area during the coming months, where they also fought in the subsequent Action of Hohenzollern Redoubt. In July, 1916 the Division moved to the Somme, where they fought at the Battle of Flers-Courcelette, and then at the Battle of Morval, capturing Lesboeufs Village. They remained here for the winter, and 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, where they fought at the Battle of the Pilckem, and then at the Battle of the Menin Road, Battle of Poelcapelle and the First Battle of Passchendaele. 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 the 21st March, 1918, at the Battle of St Quentin. The British retreated in the face of this onslaught, fighting at the First Battle of Bapaume, before the Guards Division retreated west and faced the Germans at the First Battle of Arras, 1918. After this, the German Offensive petered out on the Somme, and on the 8th August the Australian Corps advanced towards the town of Villers Brettoneux and won a mighty battle there against the Germans, thus turning the war. On the 21st August the British launched an attack on the Somme, and the Guards Division fought here at the Battle of Albert, where John was killed in action on the 21st August, 1918. He was 21 years old, and is buried at Bac-Du-Sud British Cemetery, Baillieulval.
John Erasmus Rowlands, Gunner, 150556, Royal Garrison Artillery. John was the Son of Frank and Mary Ann Rowlands, of 63, New Street, Burry Port, and he enlisted at Neath into the Royal Garrison Artillery. John served with the 101st Heavy Battery, which was part of the 64th Brigade, RGA attached to the Second Army. The Second Army was at Ypres during the summer of 1917, preparing for the great battles of Third Ypres, when John was killed in action on the 8th June, 1917. He was 29 years old, and is buried at Hop Store Cemetery, Belgium.
John Gwynfor Rowlands, Private, 99865, Machine Gun Corps. John was the Son of Mrs. M. A. Rowlands, of 17, New Street, Burry Port. He enlisted at Llanelli into the Monmouth Regiment, but later transferred into the 34th Battalion, Machine Gun Corps, which was attached to the 34th Division. The Division moved to France between 7th and 15th January 1916, and saw its first major action on the Somme, during the Battle of Albert, where it suffered very severe casualties during its part in the attack on La Boisselle. It then took part in the Battle of Bazentin, Battle of Pozieres and the Battle of Flers-Courcelette. The following year saw them fighting at Arras, during the First & Second Battles of the Scarpe, and the Battle of Arleux. In March, 1918 the Division were in the St. Quentin sector, and were hit by the German Spring Offensive on the 21st March. They fought here at the Battle of St Quentin, and this is where John was killed in action, on the 21st March, 1918. He was just 20 years old, and is remembered on the Arras Memorial, France.
Christopher Saunders, Private, 29782, South Wales Borderers. Christopher was born at Talgarth, Breconshire, the son of William and Elizabeth Saunders. He resided at Burry Port prior to the war, and enlisted at Llanelli into the 4th Battalion, South Wales Borderers, which was attached to the 40th Brigade, 13th (Western) Division. On the 13th June, 1915 the first transports carrying the Division left port, and moved to Alexandria. By the 4th July, all units had moved to Mudros, preparatory for landing on Gallipoli. Between the 6th and 16th July, 1915 the Divisional infantry landed on Cape Helles and relieved the 29th Division. They left and returned to Mudros at the end of the month, and the entire Division landed at ANZAC Cove between the 3rd and 5th August, 1915, taking part in the Battles of Sari Bair, Russell's Top, and Hill 60, ANZAC. Soon afterwards the Division was transferred from ANZAC to Suvla Bay, and it was evacuated from Suvla on the 19th December 1915, whereupon the infantry moved after a weeks rest to the Helles bridgehead, where they faced the last Turkish attacks at Helles. On the 8th January 1916, the Division was evacuated from Helles, and by the 31st January was concentrated at Port Said, where they held forward posts in the Suez Canal defences. On the 12th 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. By the 27th March, the Division had assembled near Sheikh Saad and came under orders of the Tigris Corps, and then took part in the attempts to relieve Kut. However, after these efforts failed and Kut fell, the British force in the theatre was built up and reorganised. The Division then fought at the Battle of Kut al Amara, then at the capture of the Hai Salient and the capture of Dahra Bend. They took part in the passage of the Diyala; in the pursuit of the enemy towards Baghdad, and part of the Division were the first British troops to enter Baghdad. During the rest of March and April 1917, operations were undertaken to consolidate the position won at Baghdad, by pushing north across Iraq, and the Division fought at Delli Abbas, Duqma, Nahr Kalis, crossed the Adhaim, and fought at Shatt al Adhaim. It also fought later in the year, at the Second and Third Actions of Jabal Hamrin, and finally at Tuz Khurmatli. By the 28th May, 1918, Divisional HQ had moved to Dawalib, and it remained here until the end of the war. In this inhospitable place, men endured summer temperatures as high as 111 degrees F in the shade. Many working parties were supplied for work on maintaining roads. On the 1st July, 1918 the Division received orders to detach 39th Brigade for the North Persia Force. Christopher was taken ill and died in Mesopotamia on the 3rd July, 1918. He was 27 years old, and is buried at Baghdad (North Gate) War Cemetery, Iraq. Not on Memorial.
G. Scott, Driver, Royal Field Artillery. Cannot presently be identified.
John Scott, Private, 20102, Welsh Regiment. John was the Son of George and Elizabeth Scott, of Kingswood Bristol, and the Husband of Mary Ann Scott, of 37 Victoria Street, Llandovery. He resided at Burry Port prior to the war, and enlisted at Llanelli into the 1/4th Battalion, Welsh Regiment. The Battalion had been formed at Carmarthen during August, 1914 and were to become part of the 159th Brigade, 53rd (Welsh) Division. The Division left for the Mediterranean during July, 1915 but John remained at home, in Hospital at Aberavon, suffering from illness. He died there on the 3rd September, 1915 aged 50, and is buried at Aberavon (St. Mary) Church Cemetery.
John Scott, Private, Welsh Regiment. Cannot presently be identified.
Robert Scott, Private, 4338, Pembroke Yeomanry. Robert was residing at Burry Port prior to the war, and joined the Pembroke Yeomanry at Carmarthen probably during August, 1914. The Pembroke Yeomanry arrived in Egypt in March, 1916 as part of the 1st Mounted Division, and remained there until early 1917. Robert at some time was attached to the 6th Company, Imperial Camel Corps, and he was wounded at some stage at the beginning of January, 1917. Robert died of wounds on the 9th January, 1917 and is buried at Kantara War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt.