John Melvyn WATKINS

Regimental number2/376
Date of birth27 December 1893
Place of birthSydney, New South Wales, Australia
ReligionChurch of England
OccupationClerk
Address60 Andover Street, Christchurch
Marital statusSingle
Next of kinJ W Watkins, 107 Papanui Road, Christchurch
Rank on embarkationGunner
Enlistment statusVolunteer
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, Main Body, New Zealand Field Artillery
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on 16 October 1914
Final rank2nd Lieutenant
Final unitNew Zealand Field Artillery
FateKilled in Action 1 September 1918
Place of burialBienvillers Military Cemetery (Plot XX, Row F, Grave No 12), Pas de Calais, France
Medals

Military Cross

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He superintended the unloading of wagon-loads of ammunition at the battery position, under an intense enemy barrage which was suddenly put down on the locality. His efficient control and disregard of danger enabled the work to be completed without casualties, though he himself was knocked over and temporarily incapacitated by the explosion of a shell just as his work was completed.'
Source: 'London Gazette'
Date: 2 November 1918

Other detailsMedals: Military Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal
Miscellaneous detailsNominal Roll Vol. 1: Field Artillery/Main Body