IT HAS been confirmed a Defender of the Immortal Defence of Rorke’s Drift, in 1879 would have a street road named after him at the new housing estate being built at the site of the old Trevethin School. Pte John Samuel Jobbins survived the battle and is buried in St Cadoc’s Churchyard, Trevethin adjacent to the housing development.

There are many other veterans buried in cemeteries throughout Torfaen who gave their lives in the many conflicts since Rorkes Drift, including two world wars. Many did not survive and are buried in the wonderful cemeteries in France and Belgium. We have heroes buried at home also from more recent conflicts – all young men who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

With the news that new housing estates are proposed for Torfaen in 2014, WW1 commemorations could include the naming of other street roads, etc, after those fallen comrades. Names are available from me if this initiative is accepted by the local authority and building contractors, and supported by the people of Torfaen and veterans.

These heroes (including two awarded the VC), deserve to be remembered. WE WILL REMEMBER THEM.

Lewis Freeman Chairman Royal Welsh Regimental Association Pontypool Branch