Private, 21355, 5th Battalion, South Wales Borderers. Died, killed in action, aged about 30, on 25 March 1918 at the Western Front.
The Battalion was formed as part of K2 at Brecon in September 1914 and attached to the 58th Brigade, 19th (Western) Division. In January 1915 it was converted into a Pioneer Battalion. They landed at Le Harve, France on 16 July 1915. John Evans arrived in France on 3 December 1915.
During the German Spring Offensive of March 1918, the battalion fought a significant action on 24/25 March (part of the First Battle of Bapaume), inflicting heavy losses on the Germans by determined counter-attacks and withdrawing steadily to previously prepared positions. The attack was checked but at a cost of 150 casualties. The rearguard fighting continued with the battalion making stand after stand and fighting determinately. This was the first occasion on which the battalion had fought as infantry.
Born in Holyhead the son of Hugh and Margaret J Evans of 18 Newry Street, Holyhead. Enlisted at Colwyn Bay. His mother had died in early 1912, aged 57. In 1901 he lived with his parents, brother, sister and adopted sister at 18 Newry Street, Holyhead. His father was employed as a General Labourer.
Awarded the 1915 Star, Victory Medal and British War Medal.
Buried at Bancourt British Cemetery. Grave location III.B.5.