The War Graves of Ystradgynlais

William James Powell, W J Powell on the Ystradgynlais War Memorial, served with the South Wales Borderers and was killed in action in October 1918.

The information on William James Powell has been compiled from a number of sources, including the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, from the Labour Voice newspaper, and the Parish Burial Register (courtesy of the Swansea Archives).

From the Labour Voice newspaper, 9th November 1918:-

Mr and Mrs William Powell Ty Myrddin Station Road have received the sad news that their son, Private W J Powell 10th S W B, had been killed in action in France. The intimation was conveyed to the deceased’s wife by a letter from the lieutenant commanding his platoon, Mrs Powell being now a resident at Treherbert. The letter that conveys the information reads as follows:
“I regret to have to inform you that your husband was killed instantaneously in action on the 29th inst. He was an excellent man and did fine work. On behalf of the officers, N C O’s and men of his company, I wish to extend our united sympathy with you in your sad bereavement. It is a consolation to know that he died for a noble country, which entered this war with every noble object in view. May I quote the following words: “Greater love hath no man than this - that he lay down his life for his friends”. His personal belongings, if recovered, will be forwarded to you in due course. The Army Registration will give you information regarding your husband’s burial together with a photograph of his grave in due course. – Stanley Hicks. 2nd Lieutenant “

Private Powell had only joined up 6 months ago when the call was made for the miners to offer themselves for voluntary enlistment. He was only 26 years of age and had been in France for 6 weeks with his unit. Much sympathy is felt with the bereaved wife and child, and also with the parents.

From the Labour Voice newspaper, 9th November 1918:-

Miss B Powell daughter of Mr and Mrs W Powell Ty Myrddin, has come home from Kingswood, where she is in the nursing profession. Before commencing as a nurse she was head clerk to the Glantawe Electric Supply Co. She was officially recognised in the “Telegraph” last week for devotion to duty and good conduct at the hospital at Corsham Kingswood.