Graham Howells – Welsh Regiment, 14th (Service) Battalion (Swansea)

Captain Graham Howells – Welsh Regiment, 14^th (Service) Battalion (Swansea)

Birth and Family Background

Graham Howells

John Howells and Annie Williams
marriage certificate
 St Peter’s Church, Swansea

Graham Howells was born in 1896 in Swansea, the son of John Howells and Annie Williams, who were married at St Peter’s Church in 1889.

1901 Census

At the time of the 1901 Census, the Howells family were living at 33 Mirador Crescent, Swansea. John Howells (34) was employed as Chief Clerk in the Post Office, and his wife Annie (33) was Chille-born. Their children were Ronald (9), John H. (7), Graham (5), Denzel (3), and Kenneth (2). Also present in the household was a servant, Alice Greaves (21).

1911 Census

By the 1911 Census, the family had moved to 27 Mirador Crescent, Swansea. John Howells (44) was now a Superintendent, and Annie (43) remained at home. Their children were Ronald (19), a Civil Service student; John Hubert (17), an architect’s articled pupil; Graham (15); Denzil (13); Kenneth (12); and Lyndon (8), all attending school, along with Beryl (3) and Esme (11 months). A servant, Martha Margaret Brock (19), was also part of the household.

Education, Sport, and Achievements

Graham was noted for his exceptional athletic ability. He captained the swimming, cricket, and football teams, and in October 1909 he won the Boys’ Swimming Championship of Wales. He also earned a cap as a Welsh Rugby international schoolboy and was a brilliant member of the Swansea Cricket XI.

Military Service

At the outbreak of the First World War, Graham Howells was gazetted as a Second Lieutenant after completing courses at the Camberley Staff College. He was promoted to Captain in May 1915 and served with the Welsh Regiment, “A” Company, 14^th (Service) Battalion (Swansea).

Death in Action

Swindon Advertiser

Graham Howells was killed on 2^nd May 1916. At the time of his death, his father John Howells was serving as Postmaster of Weston-super-Mare. His death was reported in the Swindon Advertiser on 6^th May 1916.

Western Mail

The Western Mail, writing on 10^th May 1916, reported that Graham was looking over the parapet of a trench after dark when a stray bullet struck him in the forehead. He died the following day, a stark illustration of the constant dangers faced by officers and men on trench duty.

Burial

Captain Graham Howells is buried at Merville Communal Cemetery, Nord, France.

His life reflects that of a gifted young sportsman and officer, whose promise was cut short during the early and brutal years of the First World War