Ystalyfera Fallen

This is the memorial page for Noel Davies, full name William Christmas Davies, native of Ystalyfera, killed during the Second World War.

The information on Noel Davies comes principally from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, from the Labour Voice newspaper, and the Parish Burial Register (courtesy of the Swansea Archives).

Marion Davies the sister of William told YEARGroup the following: November 2008

Noel was stationed at Sennybridge. The week before his unit was expected to go to Japan, they were out on manoeuvres. He was carrying a flamethrower when a hand grenade exploded and sadly he received severe wounds, (his arm was amputated and he was badly wounded in the stomach).
Marion said on the Saturday he had told their mam not to lock the door Friday evening as he was only going back to Sennybridge on Sunday for manoeuvres and he would most likely be back home again. Instead he had the accident on Tuesday and died from his wounds on Wednesday and was buried on the Saturday.

From the South Wales Voice newspaper, 28th October 1944:-

YSTALYFERA SOLDIER KILLED
Private Noel Davies 18, Graig y Merched, Ystalyfera was killed while on service in his country. He joined the Territorials in April, 1939...

From the South Wales Voice newspaper, 21st October 1944:-

YSTALYFERA MILITARY FUNERAL
Military honours were accorded Private Noel Davies S W B 13, Graig y Merched Ystalyfera, who was buried at Alltygrug Cemetery on Saturday...
Private Davies joined the Territorials in April, 1939. He was held in high esteem by officers and men. He was a faithful member of Zoar Chapel. Sympathy is extended to his widow; they were only married 16 months ago...

The grave of William Christmas Davies, aka Noel Davies, in Alltygrug Cemetery. The text reads:-   In the midst of life   We are in death