A new memorial in Swansea has been unveiled to honour 70 heroic young men known as the Kilvey Boys, who sacrificed their lives during World War One in service of their country. The monument pays tribute to these brave soldiers, including distinguished figures like Victoria Cross recipient Lieutenant Francis Grenfell and his twin brother Riversdale Grenfell. The initiative to establish this memorial was championed by Anita Pugh, the chairperson of Save Our Memorial Monument, who dedicated over a decade to bringing this project to fruition.
Anita Pugh expressed the significance of remembering these courageous individuals, highlighting their selfless acts of heroism. She recounted touching stories of valour, such as one soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice while attempting to save his lifelong friend amidst heavy gunfire. The community rallied together to ensure that the Kilvey Boys were not forgotten, raising funds exceeding £23,500 to erect the new monument, which was officially unveiled on November 15 near the Air Defence in Swansea.
Originally commemorated on memorial tablets at the now-defunct Church of All Saints in Kilvey, the names of these soldiers were relocated for safekeeping after incidents of vandalism. Following professional conservation work, the tablets were integrated into a polished black granite plinth, complemented by a striking galvanised steel section depicting the soldiers. The unveiling ceremony was attended by Lord Mayor Paxton-Hood Williams, who described the memorial as a lasting tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their nation.
The community’s dedication to preserving the memory of the Kilvey Boys was evident in the years of fundraising and awareness campaigns that led to the creation of the memorial. Anita Pugh acknowledged the tremendous support received from both local residents and international donors, underscoring the collaborative effort that culminated in the unveiling of the monument shortly after Armistice Day. The new memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the bravery and service of these 70 young men, ensuring that their legacy endures for generations to come.
In a heartfelt gesture towards those who sacrificed their lives over a century ago, the Swansea community, particularly the residents of St Thomas and Kilvey, has vowed never to forget the heroic deeds of the Kilvey Boys. The unveiling of this memorial serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of present-day inhabitants to honour the memory of these fallen soldiers. The poignant ceremony was a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of their sacrifices on the community and the profound legacy they have left behind.
The monument itself embodies the collective efforts of a community determined to uphold the memory of the Kilvey Boys, symbolising their courage and dedication to a cause greater than themselves. The unveiling ceremony marked a significant milestone in the journey to commemorate these brave soldiers, with the new memorial standing as a symbol of remembrance and gratitude for their sacrifices. As Swansea pays tribute to these 70 valiant individuals, their names will forever be etched in the annals of history, ensuring that their legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of future generations.