David Llewellyn Williams

Gunner David Llewellyn Williams – Royal Field Artillery, 22nd Battery, 48th Reserve Brigade

Early Life

1901 Census

David Llewellyn Williams was born in 1900, the son of Daniel Williams and Jane Williams (née Clement), who were married on Christmas Day, 1895.
The 1901 Census is the only record in which David appears. At that time, the Williams family was living at Mile End Inn Row. Daniel, aged 23, was employed as a crane man, and Jane, aged 27, was occupied with the care of their young family. Their children were Elsie M. (4), David L. (1), and William C. (2 months).

Military Service

During the First World War, David served as a Gunner with the Royal Field Artillery, attached to the 22nd Battery, 48th Reserve Brigade. This formation was part of the artillery units responsible for training and supplying reinforcements to front-line batteries, as well as maintaining home defence duties. Despite his youth, David’s enlistment reflected the widespread sense of duty felt by many young men at the close of the war.

Death

David died on 12th February 1919, several months after the Armistice. His death came during a period when many soldiers, particularly younger recruits, succumbed to illness and the lingering effects of wartime conditions, including the devastating influenza epidemic that followed the war.

Burial

William family grave
St. Peters church
credit - findagrave
David was buried in his family plot at St. Peter’s Church, Cockett. His funeral was conducted with full military honours, a mark of respect for his service. However, no official military headstone currently marks his grave.

Legacy

Gunner David Llewellyn Williams’s short life and service represent the enduring human cost of the Great War. Though peace had been declared, the suffering continued for many families who lost loved ones in the months that followed. His military funeral and resting place at St. Peter’s Church stand as a solemn tribute to one of Swansea’s youngest sons to serve and die in the shadow of the First World War.

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