47746 Rifleman David McLachlan 29/1/1882-24/10/1918

Otago Witness

ROLL OF HONOUR

Word has reached us of the death of Private David McLachlan in France (writes our Tahakopa correspondent). Very deep regret was felt and expressed at the most unwelcome news. The deceased soldier, who was in the sawmill business for some years, was very highly thought of. His steady character and unswerving good nature marked him as a man of sterling qualities, and a credit to his parents and his district. Much sympathy is felt for his parents and relatives in their sad loss.  -Clutha Leader, 12/11/1918.

Owaka Cemetery.

From the Official History of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade:

On the morning of the 23rd the Brigade went forward again, marching eastward some seven miles to the reserve position on the farther bank of the Selle River, just south of Solesmes. Here the 4th Battalion was attached to the 2nd Brigade as reserve during the day's fighting. The 3rd Battalion joined the 4th in the afternoon, and the two units moved up to Vertigneul, where they were held in readiness for action at half an hour's notice. Movement was now becoming so rapid and extensive that that part of the first line transport carrying ammunition, bombs and tools was ordered up to accompany the respective battalions, and the remainder was brigaded within easy reach. Next morning, following upon the further advance of the 2nd Brigade, another eastward march was made, the 1st and 2nd Battalions moving to Vertigneul and Romeries, and the 3rd (David's unit - GBC) and 4th to positions about midway between those villages and Beaudignies.

DISTRICT NEWS.

TAHAKOPA. A very pleasant social evening was held in the hall the other evening to extend a welcome home to Private McKechnie, Sergeant Fea, and Gunner Fulton. As the weather was perfect quite a large gathering filled the room. Mr A. Pullar, with two assistants, supplied the music, and under the guidance of Mr Poultney dancing and songs occupied the first part of the evening. After refreshments had been partaken of Mr Neil (chairman of the Patriotic Committee) rose and on behalf of the district expressed the pleasure felt at seeing the last of the soldiers safely home. and as a token and remembrance he presented to each soldier a gold medal, suitably inscribed. He then mentioned Private David McLachlan, who had gone to the war and paid the great price. His remarks received appreciation and sympathy from all present. The soldiers were heartily cheered, and they briefly returned thanks for the public's kindly wishes and mementos. Secretary R. Fraser then expressed the committee's gratification at the liberal response the public had always made in subscriptions for patriotic purposes, and now they had made their last call. At the same time he thought they should procure a memorial tablet to place in the hall as a reminder for all time of those from the district who had fought in the Great War. Steps would be taken to give effect to this idea. Dancing was then continued until 2 a.m.  -Clutha Leader, 12/12/1919.