'On the 5th November 1918 during the advance through the Foret de Mormal, this NCO had command of two machine guns which were ordered forward with the attacking Infantry. This necessitated the passing of crossroads which at the time were under heavy enemy shell fire. With great bravery this Sergeant led his men forward and in spite of the loss of three mules, which necessitated the manhandling of the guns, he successfully kept touch with the advancing Infantry, and was able to materially assist in the success of operations. It was undoubtedly his boldness and initiative that overcame the difficulties and inspired the men to follow his lead.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 20 August 1919

Regimental number	13/3130
Occupation	Farm hand
Next of kin	Father, J Roache, St John's Hill, Wanganui
Rank on embarkation	Trooper
Unit name	New Zealand Expeditionary Force, Horse Transports, New Zealand Mounted Rifles, Auckland Mounted Rifles, A Squadron
Embarkation details	Unit embarked from Wellington on board Aparima on 29 February 1916
Medals	Military Medal 'On the 5th November 1918 during the advance through the Foret de Mormal, this NCO had command of two machine guns which were ordered forward with the attacking Infantry. This necessitated the passing of crossroads which at the time were under heavy enemy shell fire. With great bravery this Sergeant led his men forward and in spite of the loss of three mules, which necessitated the manhandling of the guns, he successfully kept touch with the advancing Infantry, and was able to materially assist in the success of operations. It was undoubtedly his boldness and initiative that overcame the difficulties and inspired the men to follow his lead.' Source: London Gazette Date: 20 August 1919
Family/military connections	Brother: 13/3131 Gregory ROACHE
Sources	Nominal Roll Vol. 2: Roll 23, p. 9