Gunner, 188031, 464 Battery, 179th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. Died, killed in action, aged 25 on 25 December 1917 at the Western Front.
The 179th Brigade, RFA was a war raised unit formed at Lee Green, London in 1915 and originally served with 39th Division as A, B, C and D Batteries until it was broken up in Nov 1916. A new 179th Brigade, RFA was then formed in the UK comprising 383, 462, 463 and 464 Batteries. It became an Army Field Artillery Brigade in France in May 1917. These brigades were not permanently part of any division but formed a general artillery pool to assist divisions when necessary.
Because the 179th Brigade was not permanently attached to a Division, it is difficult to identify the circumstances of Gunner William's death. At the time the Battle of Cambrai had ground to a halt, new front lines were established and the British troops were having to hang onto what ground they had captured. It is probable that Gunner Williams was killed by enemy artillery fire during this time. It is poignant to note that he was killed on Christmas Day, 1917.
He was the son of Shadrach and Mary Williams of 2 Yr Erw, Holyhead. In 1911 he lived at this address with his parents, Shadrach (64) and Mary Williams (62). His father came from Caergeliog and was employed as a Platelayer. His mother originated from Liverpool. George (19) was employed as an Apprentice Baker with David Evans and Co., Chester House. Also at the house was his brother, Robert (38), a Railway Carriage Cleaner, and sister Hannah (22). The census records that his mother gave birth to nine children, with seven surviving. His siblings included Mary (b. about 1875), Elizabeth (b. about 1877), William Love Williams (b. about 1880).
His father died in August 1923, aged 78 and his mother in March 1935, aged 85. Both are buried at Maeshyfryd Cemetery, Holyhead.
Awarded the Victory Medal and British War Medal.
Buried in Neuville-Bourjonval British Cemetery, France. Grave location B.18. He is also remembered on a family grave at Maeshyfryd Cemetery, Holyhead.