The Oakdale War Memorial
Located in the heart of our historic model mining village, the Oakdale War Memorial stands as a quiet but powerful testament to the sacrifices made by our local community.
The monument honors the men and women of Oakdale and the wider Sirhowy Valley who left their homes to serve in the World Wars and subsequent conflicts. More than just a monument of stone, it is a focal point of remembrance that bridges our past and present. Through this digital archive, we are meticulously cataloging their stories, ensuring the names of those who gave their lives and the profound legacy they left behind remain a living part of Oakdale’s history for generations to come.
The Fallen from Oakdale
Tracing the footsteps of those who served across multiple generations of conflict is a complex journey. Much of this history is fragmented—particularly regarding earlier twentieth-century service, with many World War I records tragically lost to fire during the Blitz in 1940.

However, drawing on official archives and the Imperial War Museums (IWM) War Memorials Register, we honor the 34 men from World War I, the 24 men from World War II, and the sole individual who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Korean War — who are now commemorated on the Oakdale memorial stone.

Explore the Archives:
► WWI Overview: Oakdale and "The Great War"
► WWII Overview: Oakdale & The Fallen (Coming Soon)

It is important to remember that these 58 souls represent only those who did not return. Generations of local residents stepped away from the valley to serve in conflicts across the globe, eventually making the journey back home. While their individual journeys are often scattered across service records and family albums, their collective courage remains woven into the very fabric of our village.
Note: We consider this archive a living, growing tribute. While every effort has been made to verify the details shared here, piecing together history from fragmented, century-old records is a delicate process, and gaps or inaccuracies may occur. If you have further information, photographs, or family stories about any of these men and women, we warmly invite you to reach out via our contact page. With your help, we can ensure their stories are told as accurately and fully as possible.