Randall Herbert MELVILLE

Regimental number4/462
Address44 Karangahape Road, Auckland
Marital statusSingle
Next of kinAlexander Melville, Bayview Road, Northcote, Auckland
Rank on embarkationSapper
Enlistment statusVolunteer
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, Main Body, New Zealand Field Engineers
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on board Maunganui on 16 October 1914
Medals

Military Medal

'Locality Switch Line and Flers. Was in charge of Divisional Forward Signal Station during the period 15/9/16 to 1/10/16. He followed first wave of attack to Switch Line on the 15th and established his station. On the 18th he established the forward station near Flers working back to Switch Line. From the nature of the ground it was impossible to move these stations and both localities were selected by the enemy for special bombardment. Sgt Moritzson performed his work with the greatest ability, and his coolness under heavy fire inspired his party. I attribute the fact the stations kept continual, touch except when weather conditions forbade, very largely to him. He was slightly wounded on 16th but after having his wound dressed, returned immediately to his duty.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 9 December 1916

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He performed invaluable work in the preparation and execution of the schemes drawn up for the visual and power buzzer station. With the assistance of two officers, he laid a line to the furthest battalion headquarters, and on a later occasion volunteered to lay a buried cable through an exceptionally difficult piece of country, which was continually under the heaviest shell fire. Thanks to his fearlessness and determination, the task was most successfully accomplished.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 17 December 1917

Miscellaneous detailsNominal Roll Vol. 1: Field Engineers/Main Body