There appears to be an error on the First World War Medal Index Card, as they have listed him as being in the Royal Irish Fusiliers. There is a link to the medal roll number 11406, which I have cross referenced to Private 203645 Owen, 5th Battalion RWF.

Lewis William Owen was born in Rock Ferry, Cheshire, he was the tenth child of fourteen to John and Mary Owen of Gwern Bwlcyn, Bodfari. In later life his occupation was described as being a ‘Carter’. He is the younger brother of Private John Owen, also listed on the memorial.

On Private Owen’s enrolment paper, he was 19 years 8 months old and gave his occupation as being a farm labourer, stating he was single and with no previous military service. He enlisted at Wrexham on 19th January 1917. The enrolment paper on the top right hand corner has been endorsed, ‘Dead’. The commonwealth War Graves Commision has stated he is the son of John & Mary Owen of Gwern Hwlcyn, Bodfari. There is also mention, that he served in the 4th Battalion RWF.

The 1/5th Battalion (Flintshire) were involved in The Battle Of Tell ‘ Asur, which took place between 8th and 12th March 1918, which fits with the date of his death as part of the 53rd Welsh Division. The Welsh Divisions objective was to capture Tell’ Asur, a valuable observation post, with views extending  North to the Hills of Galilee with Mount Hermon. The objective was captured by 5th Battalion, RWF at 0930 hours, despite four counter attacks by Ottoman Forces, to regain the hill.