TRIBUTE has been paid to a Milford Haven soldier, whose bravery in the face of the enemy saw him awarded one of the highest military honours.

A service to remember Private Hubert William 'Stokey' Lewis took place in Milford Haven on Saturday, led by Father Edward Le Brun Powell.

100 years ago, Stokey was awarded the Victoria Cross for his valour during the First World War.

Standard bearers from the Royal British Legion attended, along with representatives from the 14th Signal Regiment.

Guests of honour were members of Stokey's family, including his son and daughter-in-law, and granddaughter.

Also in attendance were Milford Haven town councillors, the town band, local schoolchildren and cadets, and bugler Sergeant Andrew Jones of the Royal Welsh Regiment - which was Stokey's regiment.

A paving stone, part of a nationwide scheme to mark all VC recipients from the First World War, was also unveiled by Pembrokeshire County Council chairman Tony Brinsden.

Lord Bourne, joint communities and Wales Office minister, said: “The stone laid in Private Hubert Lewis’ memory is a fitting tribute to his extraordinary bravery and valour.

“I hope this will bring the residents of Milford Haven together and encourage them to learn more about the role of their local First World War hero.

“A century may have passed but we still owe those who fought and died for our liberty a huge debt of gratitude.”

Also present were family of the late Walter Ireland, a local teacher and historian who published a book on Stokey’s life.

An updated version, detailing Stokey’s incredible actions, has also been released by Milford Haven Museum.

For more details, see That Reminds Me... on page 21 of this week's Milford Mercury.