William Williams – Royal Naval Reserve, H.M. Drifter Jean

 Stoker William Williams – Royal Naval Reserve, H.M. Drifter Jean

William Williams was the husband of Margaret M. Williams, and the couple lived at 4 Margaret Street, St. Thomas, Swansea.

William served with the Royal Naval Reserve, holding the rank of Trimmer aboard H.M. Drifter Jean. This was a demanding and physically intensive role, responsible for managing the vessel’s coal supply and maintaining the steam needed for propulsion—essential work on small naval drifters engaged in wartime duties.

H.M. Drifter Jean

H.M. Drifter Jean was one of the many small fishing drifters requisitioned by the Royal Navy during the First World War. Originally built for the herring fishing industry, drifters like Jean were valued for their sturdy construction and their ability to operate effectively in coastal waters.

Once taken into naval service, vessels of this type were typically assigned to minesweeping, anti‑submarine net patrols, harbour defence, and coastal escort duties. Although vital to Britain’s maritime security, these vessels were lightly armed and highly vulnerable to attack, particularly from German U‑boats operating around the British Isles. Crewed largely by fishermen and Royal Naval Reserve personnel, they faced constant danger as they carried out their essential but hazardous tasks.

The Sinking of H.M. Drifter Jean – 17^th October 1917

On 17^th October 1917, H.M. Drifter Jean was lost to enemy action. Although detailed accounts of the sinking are limited—as is often the case with small auxiliary vessels—the Admiralty file titled “Loss of H.M. Drifter JEAN” confirms that the vessel was destroyed during wartime operations and that casualties occurred.

The period saw intense U‑boat activity around the British coastline, and it is likely that Jean was sunk either by a torpedo, gunfire from a surfaced submarine, or a mine laid by a German U‑boat. Small drifters stood little chance against such attacks, and many were lost with most or all hands.

It was during this tragic event that Trimmer William Williams lost his life.

Commemoration

As he has no known grave, William Williams is commemorated on the Plymouth Naval Memorial, which honours Royal Navy personnel lost at sea during the First World War. His name stands among those who served on some of the most vulnerable vessels of the conflict