William Lewis was born in Dungarvan to John and Mary Lewis, and was the husband of Mary Lewis of Davis Street, Dungarvan. He was a private in the Royal Irish Regiment, 2nd Battalion, service number 7288. He was previously with the Irish Guards. He enlisted in Dungarvan and was killed in action aged 26 on 24th August 1914. He is buried in St. Symphorien Military Cemetery in Belgium, grave or memorial reference II.B.13.
The plaque was designed by sculptor and medallist Edward Carter Preston (1885-1965). The design depicts Britannia holding a trident beside a lion. The designer's initials are above the front paw. Britannia holds an olive wreath above a rectangular tablet which bears the name of the deceased. No rank is given as it was agreed that no distinction should be made between those who died.Two dolphins are depicted which symbolise Britain's sea power. At the base a lion is tearing apart the German eagle. Around the edge there is an inscription: 'He died for freedom and honour'. On plaques issued to the six hundred women who were killed it was changed to 'She died...'
The plaques were cast at the Memorial Plaque Factory in Acton, London from 1919. The plaques continued to be produced into the 1930's. Along with the plaque the next of kin received a commemorative scroll from the King, and a letter.
