Lawrence Robert RITCHIE

Regimental number31353
OccupationCommercial traveller
Next of kinSister, Mrs Jean Bell, 137 Rintoul Street, Wellington
Rank on embarkationLance Corporal
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, 19th Reinforcements, Wellington Infantry Battalion, B Company
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on 15 November 1916
The infantry component of the 19th Reinforcements left New Zealand on board two ships, 'Maunganui' and 'Tahiti'. It is not possible from the Nominal Rolls to determine on which ship an individual embarked.
Medals

Military Medal

'For great gallantry and devotion to duty. Near Gravenstafel on 4th October, when in charge of the bombing section of the platoon which attacked an enemy strong post, he led his section forward through heavy machine gun fire and captured the position. He displayed great dash and determination throughout the attack, and by his conduct set a fine example to his section.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 17 December 1917

Distinguished Conduct Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. In an attack he formed one of a small party which rushed and captured two enemy machine-gun posts, taking several prisoners and capturing the guns. He displayed magnificent courage and initiative, and did excellent work on many other occasions.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 1 January 1918

SourcesNominal Roll Vol. 2: Roll 45, p. 8

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