A plaque honoring Lance Corporal Haydn Carlyle Phillips was unveiled at St Cattwg’s Church, recognizing his sacrifice during WWI.
Gelligaer: A plaque honoring a forgotten World War I soldier was unveiled. It’s at St Cattwg’s Church, celebrating Lance Corporal Haydn Carlyle Phillips.
Haydn was a student at Lewis School Pengam. He was gassed during the German Spring Offensive in March 1918. Afterward, he spent time in a military hospital in Britain.
Sadly, he died in Pengam on January 21, 1919, from heart disease caused by the gassing. Since he passed away after the war, he was overlooked by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
Over the years, his grave fell into disrepair. Thanks to local historian Paul Williams and retired history teacher Mike Oliver, the grave was restored in 2018. The Heritage Lottery Fund helped make this possible.
Now, Haydn is recognized by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The new plaque at the church honors his sacrifice and service.
After the unveiling, Paul Williams shared the importance of recognizing Haydn’s contributions during the war. He noted that Haydn spent four years on the frontline, witnessing many tragic events.
