THE CALL TO ARMS
RATANUI SOLDIERS FAREWELLED.
A farewell concert was tendered to Private William Williamson (now Corporal), of the 15th Reinforcements, on July 20. Although the weather was anything but favourable, a large number assembled in the school to bid him farewell and God-speed. A musical programme having been gone through, Mr E. Davis presented the departing soldier, on behalf of those present, with a wristlet watch, suitably inscribed. Private Williamson in a few appropriate remarks thanked all present for their kindness to him. After supper had been partaken of the floor was cleared for dancing, which was kept up for a few hours." - Clutha Leader, July 18, 1916.
Williamson left New Zealand for Europe in November, 1916, enrolled in the Otago Infantry Regiment, 2nd Battalion, D Company.
The Official History of the Otago Infantry Regiment describes the 1st and 2nd Battalions as returning to the front on February 8th, 1918, at Polygon Wood. They were engaged in strengthening their defences for the next few days, especially putting up barbed wire. On the 12th, enemy artillery gave them some attention. On the 10th, William was killed. He was 28.
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| Waitati Cemetery, photo by Allan Steel |
WILLIAMSON.— In loving memory of 15272 — Corporal William Williamson, who was killed in action in Belgium on February 10, 1918.
His King and Country called him,
That call was not in vain,
On Britain's roll of honour
You'll find our hero's name.
- Inserted by his loving father and mother, sisters and brothers. -Otago Witness, 12/2/1919 and ODT, 10/2/1919.
FOR THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE
WILLIAMSON — In loving memory of Corporal William Williamson,15th Reinforcements, killed 10th February, 1918, at Ypres, the dearly beloved second son of William and Mary Williamson, Waitati (late of Ratanui, Catlins).
We miss you most who loved you best.
— Inserted by his loving father and mother.
WILLIAMSON — In loving memory of our dear brother, Corporal Wm. Williamson, who was killed in Belgium on February 10, 1918.
In a distant land he lies
At rest in a soldier's grave;
His battles fought, his name enrolled
On the scroll of the deathless brave.
— Inserted by his loving sisters and brothers, Ratanui. -Otago Witness, 17/2/1920.
FOR THE EMPIRE’S CAUSE.
IN MEMORIAM. WILLIAMSON. — In loving memory of Corporal William Williamson (15272), beloved second son of William and Mary Williamson, who was killed in action in Belgium on February 10, 1918.
A light is from our household gone,
A voice we loved is stilled;
A place is vacant in our home,
Which never can be filled.
— Inserted by his loving father, mother, sisters, and brothers. -Otago Daily Times, 10/2/1921.
FOR THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE.
IN MEMORIAM.
WILLIAMSON — In loving memory of Corporal William Williamson, (15th Reinforcements), who was killed in Belgium on February 10, 1918, beloved second son of William and Mary Williamson, Waitati.
Four years have passed, our hearts still sore,
As time rolls on we miss him more.
His welcome smile, his loving face;
No one can ever fill his place.
— Ilnserted by his loving parents, brothers, and sisters. -Otago Daily Times, 10/2/1922.
FOR THE EMPIRE’S CAUSE.
IN MEMORIAM.
WILLIAMSON — In loving memory of 15272 Corporal William Williamson, who was killed near Ypres on February 10, 1918.
Oh! for the touch of a vanished hand,
And the sound of a voice that is still. -Otago Daily Times, 11/2/1925.
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