Michael Terence Wallace

Private Michael Terence Wallace – Welch Regiment

Early Life

Michael Terence Wallace was born in 1912, the son of Michael and Margaret Wallace. His early years are recorded in the 1921 Census, when the family lived at 41 Llangyfelach Street, Swansea.

1921 Census

Michael’s father, an Irish-born labourer employed by the Corporation, was 42 at the time, while his mother, Margaret, aged 36, managed the household. The household also included his siblings: William P. (16), Eleanor M. (15), Doris M. (12), and Magdeline (11). Eight-year-old Michael appears in this record with his middle name listed as Lorraine.

1939 Register 

By the time of the 1939 Register, Margaret was widowed but remained at the same address with her family. Michael, then 27, worked as a mason’s labourer for Swansea Corporation. His sister Eleanor had married and was raising children of her own.

Military Service

Michael enlisted with the Welch Regiment, serving as a private. Details of his service remain limited, but his military record concludes in the early post-war years.

Death

South Wales Daily Post

South Wales Daily Post

On 7^th January 1946, Private Wallace died while still in service. The South Wales Daily Post reported on his death and the inquest that followed.

Burial

Michael Terence Wallace
Danygraig Cemetery
credit - findagrave

Michael was buried at Danygraig Cemetery, Swansea. His burial was recorded as the first military burial of 1946.

Legacy

Although records of Michael’s life are scarce, his story reflects the quiet resilience of working-class families in Swansea during the early 20th century. From his childhood in Llangyfelach Street, through years of labour with the Corporation, and finally into military service with the Welch Regiment, Michael’s life and sacrifice form part of the community’s enduring memory. His burial at Danygraig Cemetery ensures his name remains preserved among those who served their country.