The Early Days

The Government's recognition of the importance of Pembroke Dockyard, and the strategic value of Milford Haven, was immediate.

There was a mass movement of troops into the area and by the 8th August South Pembrokeshire was described as an 'Armed Camp'. Between 3,000 and 4,000 soldiers occupied forts and barracks, with several hundred others under canvas.

On Sunday the 9th, the King's Harbour Master, Commander Strickland RN, issued regulations forbidding the entry of vessels into Milford Harbour after dark while a torpedo boat, together with several tugs, patrolled St. Ann's Head throughout the night.

The Neyland to Hobbs Point steam ferry boat was ordered to cease its daily service at 8.30pm. Initially this caused much concern, as passengers arriving at Neyland by train at 8.45pm and wanting to cross to Pembroke Dock found themselves stranded.

Soon after the start of the war, the news was received that the cruiser HMS Amphion, built in Pembroke Dockyard, had gone down after striking a mine. One hundred and thirty one of the ship's crew were killed, including local men James Henry Skyrme of Guildford, Llangwm and Stoker Martin of Hakin, Milford Haven.

It was announced that Pembrokeshire aviators, the James Brothers of Narberth, had offered their services to the Royal Flying Corps. At a special luncheon during Narberth Agricultural Society's annual show, Mr Lort Phillips of Lawrenny, made a presentation to Howard and 'Hebbie' James on behalf of the town and surrounding district.

Also engaging in active service were the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and a borough councillor of the County town. The Mayor, Alderman W.J. Jones, and Councillor H.D. Williams were a major and lieutenant respectively in the 4th Welsh, and the Deputy Mayor, Councillor H.J.P. Thomas, a lieutenant in the Pembrokeshire Royal Welsh Garrison Artillery.

The most patriotic home in Haverfordwest - probably in the whole of Pembrokeshire - belonged to Mr and Mrs James Collins of North Gate, who had four sons on active duty.