Harold John Thomas

Private Harold John Thomas – Royal Army Medical Corps

The Royal Army Medical Corps

The Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) was established in 1898 to provide medical services to Army personnel and their families both in war and in peace.

Before the Second World War, RAMC recruits were required to be at least 5 feet 2 inches tall and could enlist up to the age of 30. Service terms were usually seven years with the colours followed by five years in the reserve, or alternatively three and nine years. Training began with six months at the RAMC Depot, Queen Elizabeth Barracks, Church Crookham, before proceeding to specialist trade instruction.

The Queen Elizabeth Barracks, completed in 1938, were originally known as Boyce Barracks, named after Major William Wallace Boyce, DSO, RAMC. They served as the principal training depot for the Royal Army Medical Corps during the war.

Early Life

Harold John Thomas was born in 1919, the youngest son of William John Thomas and Catherine Thomas (née Nurse), who had married in 1898.

1921 Census

In the 1921 Census, the family was recorded at 18 Kilvey Terrace, Swansea. William, then aged 43, was employed as a Dock Labourer with the Swansea Harbour Trust (Officer Somerset Place), while Catherine, also 43, managed the household.

The household included their children: William Henry (20), employed as a sailor; Florence May (15), assisting with domestic duties; Winifred (11) and Frederick (9), both attending school; and Harold John, just 2 years old.

Military Service

Little is known about Harold’s early adult life, but by the outbreak of the Second World War he had enlisted with the Royal Army Medical Corps, one of the most vital branches of the Army. Serving in the RAMC, Harold would have been responsible for providing medical assistance to wounded soldiers, both in the field and in military hospitals, a role often carried out under dangerous conditions.

Death

On 10^th August 1943, Private Harold John Thomas died while serving with the Royal Army Medical Corps. He was just 24 years old.

Burial

Harold John Thomas
Danygraig Cemetery
credit - findagrave

Harold was laid to rest in Danygraig Cemetery, Swansea. His grave remains a reminder of the service and sacrifice of men who, though not fighting directly on the front lines, played a crucial role in saving lives and supporting the war effort.

Legacy

Although the surviving records of Harold’s life are sparse, his story stands for the countless men of the Royal Army Medical Corps who gave their service—and sometimes their lives—in support of their comrades. His grave at Danygraig Cemetery ensures that his contribution is not forgotten.