Hamilton MELVILLE

Regimental number8/3006
AddressMiddlemarch, Otago
Marital statusSingle
Next of kinCousin, T Brooks, 100 Maclaggan Street, Dunedin
Rank on embarkationPrivate
Enlistment statusVolunteer
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, 7th Reinforcements, Otago Infantry Battalion
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on 10 October 1915
The 7th Reinforcements left New Zealand on 10 October 1915 aboard three ships ('Aparima', 'Navua' and 'Warrimoo'). It is not possible from the Nominal Roll to determine on which ship an individual embarked.
Medals

Military Medal

'Operations: On the British Front east of Hebuterne, 14th May 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. This man was one of a patrol of four men, under Sergeant Travis, which went out in broad daylight, and captured an enemy machine gun post; although their Battalion was in Support these men volunteered to go out and secure identification, which was urgently required. They left our front line about 7.15pm and by skilful use of the ground they crept up to the enemy post unobserved, and, disposing themselves very cleverly completely surprised the enemy post of seven Germans. The officer of the post showed fight, and was shot; the connection in the post aroused a neighbouring post who rushed down the sap to the aid of their comrades, firing at the patrol who were conducting the prisoners to our lines; two prisoners being thus shot by their own comrades. The above was carried out in a most daring manner, and the men concerned showed courage of a very high order. The patrol was subjected to heavy machine gun fire on withdrawing from the enemy post and were sniped at from all sides. This man has done much good work on patrol and has always set an example of courage and devotion to duty.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 13 September 1918

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Prior to an attack he assisted to locate the enemy's positions with great accuracy by frequent patrols. During our advance he rushed an enemy machine gun that was causing delay, killing five of the team single handed and taking a prisoner. His conduct throughout was marked by conspicuous gallantry and initiative.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 30 October 1918

Miscellaneous detailsNominal Roll Vol. 1: Otago Infantry Batln/Seventh