John SMITH

Regimental number34932
OccupationLabourer
Next of kinSister, Mrs Barr, 1 Lorne Street, South Dunedin
Rank on embarkationPrivate
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, 20th Reinforcements (2nd Draft), Otago Infantry Regiment, D Company
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on board HMNZT Athenic on 30 December 1916
Medals

Military Medal

'In the Becelaere Sector on the night of November 27th 1917, six men of a ration party were wounded by shell fire. Pte Smith, battalion stretcher bearer, under heavy and sustained shell fire went out and dressed the wounded men. Again on the afternoon of November 29th, when the trench was being bombarded most severely, he went out under terrific fire and bandaged a wounded man. His actions were most gallant, performed under most trying conditions, and were undoubtedly the means of saving the lives of at least 3 men. On both occasions he showed most marked devotion to duty, and has at all times done very fine work. He has invariably set an excellent example to his fellows.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 23 February 1918

SourcesNominal Roll Vol. 2: Roll 49, p. 6