Hugh Thomas – Royal Field Artillery, “Y” 1st Trench Mortar Battery

Lieutenant Hugh Thomas – Royal Field Artillery, “Y” 1^st Trench Mortar Battery

Birth and Family Background

Hugh Thomas was born in 1885 at Treboth, Swansea, the son of Robert Thomas and Ellen Thomas.

1891 Census

At the time of the 1891 Census, the Thomas family were residing at 129 Pentreterharne Road, Swansea. Robert Thomas (47), born in Monmouthshire, was serving as a Congregational Minister, while his London-born wife Ellen (46) managed the household. Their children were Idris (13); Catherine (11); Robert G. (8); and Hugh (6), all attending school.
Also present was a servant, Mary Evans (26).

1901 Census

By the time of the 1901 Census, the family had moved to 115 Llangafelach Road, Swansea. Robert Thomas (57) continued his ministry as a Congregational Minister, and Ellen (56) remained at home. Their children present were Idris (23), a marine engineer; Catherine (21), a student; and Hugh (16), an architect’s apprentice.
Also present was a servant, Mary Evans (37).

Military Service

During the First World War, Hugh served as a Lieutenant with the Royal Field Artillery, attached to “Y” 1^st Trench Mortar Battery. Trench mortar batteries operated close to the front line, providing short-range, high-angle fire in support of infantry attacks and defensive operations, a role that exposed officers and men to constant danger from enemy shellfire and counter-battery action.

Death and Burial

Hugh Thomas was killed in action on 2^nd March 1917 during fighting on the Somme. He is buried at Fouquescourt British Cemetery, Somme, France.

His death reflects the hazards faced by artillery officers serving in forward positions, where trench mortar units operated under relentless enemy observation and fire