William Hugh Hughes, Anson Bttn. RN Division

Able Seaman, Mersey Z/799, RNVR, Anson Battalion, RN Division. Wounded and missing, assumed killed in action, aged 22, on 28 April 1917 at the Western Front

He fell during the Battle of Arleux, a phase of the Battle of Arras. Anson Battalion, ‘C’ Company, was engaged with 2 Royal Marines Battalion in an action to capture a German strongpoint at Gavrelle Windmill. Losses were heavy and ‘C’ Company suffered 1 Officer killed and 4 wounded. 23 Other Ranks were killed, 76 wounded and 6 missing, probably dead.

Enlisted 17 November 1915. Joined draft for BEF, Anson Bn., 06 September 1916. Suffered bronchitis 22 December 1916 to 10 February 1917. Rejoined Anson Battalion 22 February 1917.

Born 31 July 1894. Previously employed as a Ship’s Steward. Resided at 5 Queen Street, Holyhead. Son of John and Annie Hughes of 9 Queen’s Terrace, Holyhead. His father John Hughes was lost with the SS Connemara disaster.

Awarded the Victory Medal and British War Medal.

Commemorated on the Arras Memorial (MR20), Bay 1. He is remembered on his parents gravestone at Maeshyfryd Cemetery, Holyhead - Section A, Grave 186.