Harry H (Heritage) Owen was born at Oswestry in 1883. His parents were John and Louisa, his father was a (steam) engine fitter. The middle name ‘Heritage’ was his mother’s maiden name. Harry was the second eldest with 4 sisters: Ethel, Florrie, Ida and the youngest, Louie. The Censuses for 1891 and 1901 show him living at 38 Coney Green but in 1911 they were living at 4 Gatacre Road. He worked for the Cambrian Railways as a blacksmith and engine fitter. His father also worked there.

Harry enlisted as Private 12352 in 6 Bn KSLI on 7 September 1914, one of the original Oswestry Pals. He went over to France with the battalion in December 1915. In March 1916 he was taken ill whilst at Poperinghe. He was diagnosed with influenza and bronchitis brought on by the conditions in the trenches and the constant exposure to wetness and the cold. He was transferred home in April 1916. His condition did not improve. At a Medical Board hearing in September 1916 it was heard that he had lost weight, was anaemic, had a poor heart and shallow breathing and was diagnosed with pneumonia. He was judged to be medically unfit as a result of active service. Initially given 6 months ‘sick leave’ but was discharged under King’s Regulations Para 392 on the 10 October 1916. His condition seems to have worsened and he died early in April 1917 – he was buried on 10 April 1917  at Oswestry Cemetery. He is also commemorated on St Oswald’s Church and Cambrian Railway war memorials.

On the CWGC Harry is commemorated on the Brookwood Memorial 1914-18. This is a memorial for those who became casualties and died in the care of their families and have no known grave. It was only in 2015 that Harry was recognised as a war casualty and included on CWGC. This was due to the detective work of Mr Philip Smith-Morris. For a report of the story visit Shropshire Star. Further information from CWGC is pending (contacted 10 February 2017).

Acknowledgements.

References and Sources

END