Evan Williams, Royal Welsh Fusiliers

Private, 89453, 13th (Service) Battalion (1st North Wales), Royal Welsh Fusiliers. Died, killed in action, aged 20, on 20 October 1918 at the Western Front.

The Battalion was formed at Rhyl on 3 September 1914 by the Denbigh and Flint TF Associations, but transferred to the Welsh National Executive Committee on 10 October 1914. In November 1914 it was attached to 128th Brigade, 43rd Division at Llandudno. On 28 April 1915 the formation became the 113th Brigade, 38th (Welsh) Division. It moved to Winchester in August 1915 and landed in France in December 1915.

Born in Holyhead, he was the son of Kate Williams of 17 Baker Street, Holyhead. In 1901 he was living at 4 Mill Street, Holyhead with his parents Owen Williams (29) and Catherine (33) together with brothers Owen (7) and John (1) and sister Jane (5). His father came from Llanwrog, Anglesey and was employed as a Goods Porter (Railway). His mother originated from Llanfachraeth, Anglesey. In 1911 he lived at 13 Baker Street, Holyhead with his mother, Catherine; brother Owen (employed as an Assistant Carter); sister Jane Ellen and younger brother John.

He enlisted at Wrexham and at the time of his death his Battalion was heavily involved in the Battle of the Selle (17-25 October 1918), this being part of the final advance in Picardy. The Battalion War Diary records that the Battalion was located at Montay (south-east of Cambrai, France) and commenced a surprise attack in the early hours of the 20 October to establish positions to the east of the River Selle. The Battalion attacked up a railway embankment and encountered "considerable opposition from machine gun and rifle fire from the railway, but this was speedily overcome with the enemy surrendering freely". The War Diary further describes that by the end of the day all objectives were achieved and defensive lines were established and consolidated. The War Diary records that in the action one Officer and 8 soldiers lost their lives, including that of Evan Williams.

He died the same day as Private Edward Williams, 28342, also of the 13th Battalion, RWF.

Awarded the Victory Medal and British War Medal.

Commemorated on the Vis-En-Atois Memorial, Panel 6. He has no known grave.