Dennis Gilbert NEEDHAM

Regimental number20397
Next of kinFather, A Needham, Douglas Taranaki
Rank on embarkationPrivate
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, 16th Reinforcements, Wellington Infantry Battalion, B Company
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on board HMNZT 62 Mokoia on 21 August 1916
Medals

Military Medal

'East of Ypres on the 4th October 1917 this Battalion Runner displayed the very greatest bravery and devotion to duty. He often carried messages to the front line under heavy shell fire and on one occasion when news of a counter attack had been received, and it was necessary to warn the front line and get up reinforcements, notwithstanding that he had only just returned through the enemy barrage on the front line, he volunteered to carry this message, and passing through the barrage again he carried out his errand with extraordinary speed, returning again to report that the reinforcements were on their way. A magnificent example of courage and devotion to duty.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 17 December 1917

SourcesNominal Roll Vol. 2: Roll 38, p. 11