Dawlish World War One Project

Thomas Norman Lewis was medically examined on 16th January, 1915, and measured at 5’ 8 3/4” and weighing 143 lbs (fraction under 10 stone), having fair complexion and blue eyes. He enlisted in the Royal Garrison Artillery at Shepherd's Bush, Middlesex on 19th January 1915. He is unusual in being documented in a service record that survived the fires in the blitz of WW2.

He was promoted to Bombardier on 29th May 1917 and was promoted to ‘Acting Corporal vice 337638 Hardy, performing duties from 17th June 1917.’

He was killed in action on 8th August 1917.  (see Document, below, for full service history)

Thomas Norman Lewis came from a North Devon family although he and his siblings were born in Ireland. His grandparents were Thomas Lewis (1829-1913), an agricultural labourer and Elizabeth Staddon (1828-), both born in Ilfracombe. Their son, also Thomas, joined the Royal Navy and transferred to the Coastguard Service. He was promoted to Chief Boatman at Rosslare on 31 May 1897 and to Chief Boatman in Charge in August 1900. In 1901 the family were at Mossyglen, Greencastle, Donegal.

From 7th July 1903 until retirement on 3rd February 1910 he was based at Dawlish.  (See Documents below for full story)
The seven children are still living at home in 1911 when the family were at Iddesleigh Terrace, Exeter Road, Dawlish and most were employed: