Robert Ford Burgess IRVING

Regimental number9/992
AddressStirling
Marital statusSingle
Next of kinMother, Mrs Mary Irving, Stirling, Otago
Rank on embarkationTrooper
Enlistment statusVolunteer
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, 4th Reinforcements, Otago Mounted Rifles
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on board Waitomo on 17 April 1915
Final rankPrivate
Final unit1st Battalion, Otago Infantry Regiment
Medals

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On the 7th September 1918 in front of Havrincourt Wood, Private Irving was one of a patrol on the morning of our attack. The machine-gun fire was heavy and the situation became rather obscure. Private Irving was badly wounded in the shoulder and returned to his Company Headquarters to report. His Company Commander was, however, in the front line and thereupon this soldier, despite his wound and the heavy shelling, insisted on going back to report. Finding his Company Commander he pointed out the situation and supplied valuable information. By this time he was practically exhausted, and he had to be carried away. His was a fine example of courage and devotion, and assisted very materially in clearing up the situation.'
Source: 'London Gazette'
Date: 11 February 1919

Miscellaneous detailsNominal Roll Vol. 1: Otago Mounted Rifles/Fourth