William CRAVEN

Regimental number42050
OccupationFarmer
Next of kinFather, Richard Bridge Craven, Parakai, via Helensville
Rank on embarkationPrivate
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, 23rd Reinforcements, E Company (Unattached)
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on board HMNZT Corinthic on 2 April 1917
Final rankPrivate
Final unit3rd Battalion, New Zealand Rifle Brigade
Medals

Military Medal

'For conspicuous gallantry and daring in action. In the attack near Le Quesnoy on the morning of the 4th November 1918 Craven and Jenkins as Battalion Runners were sent out with an important message to a flank Company. The Company could not be found and these runners came under fire of an enemy machine gun post at close range. Without hesitation both runners rushed the gun killing two of the enemy and wounding one with their revolvers, taking the remaining 4 of the crew back as prisoners and capturing the gun. They reported back to Battalion Headquarters with their prisoners and said the Company could not be located.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 17 June 1919

SourcesNominal Roll Vol. 3: Roll 57, p. 17

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