James Bowen Thomas – Royal Welsh Fusiliers, 4th Battalion
Private James Bowen Thomas – Royal Welsh Fusiliers, 4th Battalion
Birth and Family Background
James Bowen Thomas was born in 1896 at Swansea,
the son of John H. Thomas and Mary Ann Adams, who
were married in 1889.
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| 1901 Census |
The 1901 Census records the family living at 10 Park Street, Mumbles. John H. Thomas (36) was employed as a dock labourer, while his wife Mary A. (35) managed the household.
Their children were Henry (12), Lilian (11), Mary
A. (9), Beatrice (7), James B. (5), and Rosa (1).
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| 1911 Census |
By the time of the 1911 Census, the family had moved to 100 Glantawe Street, Morriston, near Swansea. John Thomas (41) was employed as a tinplate worker, and his wife Mary (40) managed the household.
Children present in the household were Catherine (20),
a dressmaker; James (16), employed as a tinworker; Thomas
(14); Mary Lizzie (12); and Margaret (10), all of whom were
attending school, along with John (3) and Abigail (4 months).
Military Service
James Bowen Thomas enlisted in the British Army
and served as a Private with the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, 4th
Battalion.
In June 1918, the battalion was serving on the Western
Front during a period of intense and dangerous front-line duty. Following
the heavy fighting of the German Spring Offensives, British units were
holding defensive positions while preparing for renewed Allied operations.
By 9th June 1918, the 4th Battalion
was engaged in routine but hazardous operations including holding trenches,
patrolling No Man’s Land, and enduring frequent artillery
bombardments and trench raids. Although no major set-piece battle was
taking place at the time, casualties were common from shellfire, sniper
activity, and sudden enemy action.
Death and Burial
It was during this period of sustained front-line service
that Private James Bowen Thomas lost his life on 9th June 1918.
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| James Bowen Thomas Pernois British Cemetery, Halloy-les-Pernois, France credit - fidnagrave |
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