Harold Eric BARROWCLOUGH

Regimental number24/16
Date of birth23 June 1894
Place of birthMasterton, Wairarapa
ReligionPresbyterian
OccupationStudent
AddressKnox College, Dunedin
Marital statusSingle
Age at embarkation21
Height5' 8"
Weight149 lbs
Next of kinFather, A E Barrowclough, Havelock, Marlborough
Previous military service4th (Otago) Regiment, Territorial Force
Enlistment date12 January 1915
Place of enlistmentTrentham
Rank on embarkationLieutenant
Enlistment statusVolunteer
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, New Zealand Rifle Brigade, 2nd Battalion, B Company
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on board Tahiti on 10 October 1915
Final rankCaptain
Final unit4th Battalion, New Zealand Rifle Brigade
FateCommenced return to New Zealand
Medals

Distinguished Service Order

'For conspicuous gallantry and able leadership near Havricourt Wood from 8th to 13th September, 1918. He was in command of a battalion up against a strong position stoutly defended by the enemy. He gained good information from personal reconnaissances, during one of which the enemy counter-attacked. He rallied his men, and, leading them forward, drove back the enemy with bomb and bayonet.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 1 February 1919

Croix de Guerre (France)

'Gallantry and devotion to duty. On 30th September 1916 in Flers Support Trench during heavy shell and machine gun fire Captain Barrowclough led his Company in capturing about 400 yards of the trench. At one time the bombers came under British Stokes Gun Fire and had to retire. Captain Barrowclough went forward and by personal example inspired the bombers to continue. The operation was particularly difficult as a Company of a British Regiment had failed in the task the previous day. His coolness inspired his men to further efforts. By his success he materially assisted the Brigade on the left to capture and hold the position in front of Eaucourt l'Abbaye.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 14 July 1917

Mentioned in Despatches

'For distinguished and gallant services and devotion to duty during the period 16th September 1918, to 15th March 1919.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 11 July 1919

Military Cross

'For conspicuous gallantry and bravery during the attack by his Company on 30th September 1916, when by his coolness and vigour he inspired his men and bombed and bayonetted down 250 yards of Flers Support Trench towards Eaucourt l'Abbaye and having cleared this portion of trench consolidated and held what he had gained. Since being appointed Company Commander on 16th September, 1916, this officer has displayed skill and ability in the tactical handling of his Company, and has always set a high example of his men.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 4 June 1917

Discharge date29 July 1919
Other details

War service: Egypt, Western Front

Medals: Distinguished Service Order, Military Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal, Croix de Guerre (France)
Date of death4 March 1972 Auckland
Age at death77
SourcesNominal Roll Vol. 1: B Company/2nd NZRB
Archives New Zealand (Wellington), Agency AABK, Series 18805

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