12538 Trooper William John Cullen Andrews, 1907-21/5/1942.

31630 apt. J.L Rayner

Div. Cap. Regt NZEF

Middle East Forces

3rd June 1942

Dear Mrs Brownlee

I am writing to give you a few more details about Bill Andrews' death. I presume that the army has already advised you by telegram, but you probably wish for little more information. It was one of these unfortunate accidents which will happen despite all precautions which we take regarding weapons. The squadron was out in the Syrian desert on exercise. We had put our vehicles in the usual tight little circle as a protection against wandering Arabic tribes. It was dark and one of the boys was cleaning his pistol preparatory to going on guard. Through some unexplained accident the pistol was discharged, and the bullet lodged in Bill's chest. Despite the doctor’s efforts Bill died some hours later. He did not have a great deal of pain and I was with him when he died. He did not know that the wound was fatal and was quite cheerful.

Naturally the boy who had the pistol is very cut up about the whole thing. To make matters worse he was a friend of Bill's.

I have known Bill for two years now, as a matter of fact I welcomed him into camp in Burnham about April or May 1940. He was such a good reliable chap and was most popular in the Squadron. He was one of these quiet boys who never get rattled and was just the man to have in a tight corner, we were in serval together.

The deep sympathy of the Officers, NCO’s and men of B Squadron, go out to you. We have lost a good pal and you have lost a brother. We have lost a good many friends in this war, but their memory always remains green with us. It will always be “remember when Bill Andrews said this or did that”.

Bill's personal gear has been sorted out and will, I presume, be sent to you. I have sent on two razers (blades), 1 ??? & 1 comb & a wallet. The balance of his effects will be drawn out of his Base kit. Once again expressing my own sympathy.

Yours faithfully

J Rayner

For the above, and the image below, I am indebted to the Online Cenotaph and its contributors.

Havelock Cemetery.