James Hardie NEIL

Regimental number3/1307
OccupationMedical practitioner
Next of kinWife, Mrs M E Hardie Neil, 64 Symonds Street, Auckland
Rank on embarkationLieutenant-Colonel
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, New Zealand Rifle Brigade, No 2 Field Ambulance
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on 5 February 1916
Final rankLieutenant Colonel
Final unitNo.3 Field Ambulance, New Zealand Medical Corps
Medals

Mentioned in Despatches

'This Officer has consistently carried out his duties with enthusiasm and efficiency. During the operations against Messines (June 7th-9th 1917), he commanded an Advanced Dressing Station at Hill 63. Although his position was subjected to a heavy bombardment by shells and gas shells, he carried on his duties without interruption, and his courage and devotion to duty was a constant inspiration to those working under his command.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 28 December 1917

Mentioned in Despatches

'This officer organised and trained No 3 New Zealand Field Ambulance in New Zealand. Since joining the division in February 1916 his consistently hard work has brought this Unit to a very high state of efficiency. This Officer has also rendered willing and valuable service in organizing Divisional Entertainments. His consistent devotion to the duties of his Command and any other duties he has been called upon to perform is deserving of recognition. He has continued to perform these duties throughout the period 21st September 1916 to 25th February, 1917.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 1 June 1917

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during operations near Bapaume and Bancourt from 23rd August to 3rd September 1918. He was in command of the ambulance, and constantly visited the forward regimental aid post under heavy shell fire, and selected positions for the bearer relay posts. During the action round Bancourt he went forward with two light ambulance-cars to within a few hundred yards of the front line and supervised the evacuation. It was owing to his gallantry and personal supervision that the evacuation of the wounded was so successfully carried out.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 1 January 1919

Croix de Guerre (Belgium)

'For distinguished services rendered during the course of the campaign.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 12 July 1918

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

SourcesNominal Roll Vol. 2: Roll 24, p. 34