David J W. Mathews was born 5 Jul 1889 in Llanfair Caereinion, Mont. Wales, son of Dr. James Snodgrass Mathews and Mary Anne (Williams) Mathews. He was raised in Machynlleth, Mont.Wales. By all accounts he was a kind, loving son, brother and friend. After his father's death in 1911, he immigrated to Canada along with his brother Gordon and good mate Charles Henry Hardy. His mother and sister followed in 1912. On 22 January 1916 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada he signed his Attestation Papers, joining the 179th Batt. C.E.F. Cameron Highlanders of Canada. After arriving at Sandling, England on 22 Oct 1916 he was transferred to the 17th Batt. before being S.O.S on 12 Nov 1916 and proceeding overseas to the 43rd Cameron Highlanders of Canada. On 26th Oct 1917, at ZERO hour 5:40 a.m., in the pouring rain the barrage opened on time and David bravely advanced with his Batt. At the end of this fierce battle, David was reported as one of the 66 soldiers M.I.A. and subsequently reported K.I.A. on 7 Nov 1917. It is comforting to know that his good mate Private 859293 Charles Hardy was with him throughout his service. A newspaper report states: His friend (Pte. Charles Hardy), who had resided with the family for many years is now on leave. Both joined the army together and had never been separated. Pte. Hardy states that he last saw his friend on the 26th October just before the big fight in which the Canadians distinguished themselves. When the roll call was called Pte. Mathews was missing and as no prisoners were taken that day it is feared that the worst has happened. R.I.P. Great Uncle David.

Lorraine Speers