David Thomas 1875-1948
David Thomas
Born: 1875 or 1876 Borth, Aberystwyth, Wales. UK
Died: 13 Feb 1948 Colwyn Bay, North Wales. UK
David served his country in one capacity or another for most of his life. He served with the South Wales Borderers during Boar War, fought in the First World War, and was a Sergeant in Denbighshire Constabulary until his retirement in 1925.
(Info from Royal Regiment of Wales): 3941 Private David Thomas, 2nd Battalion South Wales Borderers. Born at Holy Trinity, Aberystwyth, Cardiganshire. Enlisted at Aldershot 08/03/1892 aged 18 years. Queens South Africa medal with clasps (Cape Colony), Orange Free State, Transvaal). King's South Africa medal with clasps (1901, 1902).
The best tribute is that found on the certificate presented to him on his retirement from the police:
Presented to
Sergeant David Thomas
Late of Denbighshire Constabulary on the occasion of his retirement.
On behalf of the residents of Colwyn Bay & District, we desire to place on record our high appreciation of your valuable services whilst in this district. Where you have always been found to be a most capable courteous & tactful Officer, not alone have you discharged your police duties to the complete satisfaction of all concerned, but you have also served your King & Country, in the Boar War, and when the appeal for Instructors in the Great War went forth you nobly responded to the call, Salonica, Egypt, & Turkey being the scenes of your labours, as well as assisting to form the 19th 21st & 22nd Battalions of the Royal Welch Fusiliers.
In your retirement you take with you our hearty good wishes for your future happiness, and we trust you will long be spared to enjoy your well earned rest.
Signed on behalf of the subscribers.
Richard Lumley Chairman
Jim L. Francis Hon Treasurer
E. Birthell Hon Secretary
31 August 1925
He is buried in Colwyn Bay Cemetary (A547 from Colwyn Bay towards Conway. Cemetary and crematorium signed off on the right under the A55 Conway Road) and the headstone reads:
David Thomas
died 13 Feb 1948, aged 72,
also his beloved wife Lilian
died 13 March 1952, aged 69.
In loving Memory
"Reunited".
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