Allen Henry KING

Regimental number8/1273
Date of birth24 October 1893
Place of birthGisborne
ReligionPresbyterian
OccupationClerk
Address106 The Terrace, Wellington
Marital statusSingle
Next of kinMother, Mrs A M King, 106 The Terrace, Wellington
Rank on embarkationPrivate
Enlistment statusVolunteer
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, 2nd Reinforcements, Otago Infantry Battalion
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on board Willochra on 14 December 1914
Final rank2nd Lieutenant
Final unitOtago
FateCommenced return to New Zealand 6 January 1920
Medals

Military Cross

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This Officer has served with his Battalion since the end of 1914, and during this time has displayed the greatest gallantry and devotion to duty. On October 12th when all the Officers, except two, of this Battalion, had been casualties at Belle Vue Spur, 2nd Lieut King who was Battalion Signalling Officer, went forward to establish a forward Battalion Headquarters and found the advance was held up. He immediately took command of the company and sent back valuable reports throughout the day. The machine-gun fire was very heavy and it was only by sheer personal determination and bravery that he succeeded in holding the position. At dusk he successfully reorganised his company and commanded it until relieved. At Polderhoek on December 2nd he again showed the greatest bravery and resource. He used every means in his power to maintain communications, and at night successfully linked up the Companies with Battalion Headquarters. All through the autumn and winter this young officer has been an example to everyone and has great influence on the morale of his Battalion. His disregard of danger being very marked.'
Source: 'London Gazette'
Date: 3/06/1918

Discharge date23 March 1920
Other details

War service: Egypt, Gallipoli, Western Front

Wounded in action, 4 November 1918 (gun shot wound, left foot).

Commenced return to New Zealand on board SS 'Ruahine', 6 January 1920; discharged23 March 1920.

War service: 5 years 173 days (of which 5 years 13 days were abroad).

Medals: Military Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Miscellaneous detailsNominal Roll Vol. 1: Otago Infantry Batln/Second
Date of death5 February 1967
Age at death73
SourcesArchives New Zealand (Wellington), Agency AABK, Series 18805, File 18057137

Print format