45095 Private James Hocking, 7/1/1879-1/10/1917.

The description in his army record, of the wounds that killed James Hocking is a short one: "gunshot wound head, compound fracture left tibia."

It can only be hoped that he was unconscious when he died.

He was killed shortly after the Otago Regiment reached the Ypres area at the beginning of the disastrous Battle of Passchendaele.  A "fierce artillery duel" began and it was during this time that James Hocking was fatally wounded.

FOR THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE

DEATHS

HOCKING. — In loving memory of Private James Hocking, who died on October 1, 1917, from wounds received while in action "Somewhere in France," beloved eldest son of R. and E. Hocking, of Pukerau. 

We are thinking of you often in that grave so far away,

— How we wish that you were here, for we miss you day by day; 

In our hearts your memory lingers fondly, sweetly, tender, true, 

In our life there's not a day when we do not think of you. 

Duty called you — you were there 

To do your bit and take your share; 

Your heart was good, your spirit brave, 

Your resting place a soldier's grave. 

— Inserted by his loving parents, brothers, and sisters.   -Otago Daily Times, 1/10/1918.

Pukerau Cemetery.