'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On 29th September 1918, at Bon Avis Ridge he led his platoon with great dash and skill against enemy machine gun positions putting several of these out of action and capturing many prisoners. Later, when consolidating in an exposed position though himself wounded, he risked his life in rescuing a wounded comrade under heavy rifle fire and machine gun fire. He was a fine example of what a platoon commander should be and inspired everyone with whom he came in contact.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 14 May 1919

Regimental number	36696
Occupation	Labourer
Next of kin	Father, John William Tepene, Otakou Otago
Rank on embarkation	Private
Unit name	New Zealand Expeditionary Force, 21st Reinforcements, Otago Infantry Battalion, D Company
Embarkation details	Unit embarked from Wellington on board Ulimaroa on 19 January 1917
Final rank	Sergeant
Final unit	2nd Battalion, Otago Infantry Regiment
Medals	Military Medal 'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On 29th September 1918, at Bon Avis Ridge he led his platoon with great dash and skill against enemy machine gun positions putting several of these out of action and capturing many prisoners. Later, when consolidating in an exposed position though himself wounded, he risked his life in rescuing a wounded comrade under heavy rifle fire and machine gun fire. He was a fine example of what a platoon commander should be and inspired everyone with whom he came in contact.' Source: London Gazette Date: 14 May 1919
Sources	Nominal Roll Vol. 3: Roll 52, p. 16