Howell Oswald Williams was born on 27 April 1896 at Abererch near Pwllheli, Caernarfonshire.  His father was Robert Williams, a farmer at Henllan near Abererch, his mother was Jane. This was Jane’s second marriage, she had married Robert in 1891. Jane had 2 sons – Llewelyn and William – 16 from her previous marriage – both were arts students. In 1911 Howell he was living at home and was at school, his step brothers had left home. After leaving school Howell began work for Midland Bank and in October 1913, age 17, was appointed to the branch in Oswestry. His parents died in the intervening years.

Howell enlisted in July 1916 joining King’s Shropshire Light Infantry. He served in both 5 and 7 battalions and had been wounded at least twice and more likely three times – he was a recipient of the Silver Star Medal. It is probable that he had been posted to 7 Bn Leinster Regiment on returning to the front after being wounded and recovered – at this time returning troops were posted to where they were needed rather than by their choice. The Leinsters were an Irish regiment. He was killed near to Frezenberg during the Battle of Pilckem Ridge, Third Ypres. The battalion was assigned as support troops for the main assault and had moved forward on 2 August, the day of his death, to the area around Wildes Wood. That day the battalion lost 6 ORs KIA and 34 wounded to enemy shelling. His death was listed as on or since 2 Aug 17, presumed dead. He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Menin Gate at Ypres. He is also remembered on the Midland Bank Roll of Honour and on Ireland Roll of Honour. His medals, British War and Victory, were returned and destroyed under Kings Regulations Para 992.

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