49355 Lance-corporal Thomas Willoughby Dryden, (22/9/1894-14/3/1918). "the hardships endured"

FOR THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE.

DEATHS. 

DRYDEN. — On March 14, "Somewhere in France," died from wounds, Lance-corporal Thomas Willoughby Dryden (27th Reinforcements), filth son of William and Marion Dryden, Duke street; in his 24th year.  -Otago Daily Times, 3/4/1918.

MANCHESTER UNITY

An enthusiastic gathering of Oddfellows assembled in the large room of the Loyal Valley Lodge last night on the occasion of the 55th anniversary. The function was presided over by P.G. Bro. J. Robson, and associated with him were several old P.G.s, who filled the minor chairs, it being what is termed the “old brigade's night." The programme provided was one of exceptional merit, and earned the warm applause of the visiting brethren. During an interval in the proceedings P.D.G.M. Bro. Russell, in the absence of P.G.M. Bro. Fleming, was called upon to unveil a roll of honor erected as a tribute to those members of the lodge who gone forth to fight their country’s battle and assist in upholding those glorious ideals for which the British nation stands. As the draping was removed, disclosing the tablet, the assembly rose and sang the National Anthem. The ‘Last Post’ was sounded as a mark of respect to the memory of two of the brethren who had made the supreme sacrifice — Bros. J. B. Smith and T. W. Dryden. Among the speakers who voiced their appreciation of the sacrifice made and hardships endured by our brothers at the front were P.C.S. Bro. Hopcraft, P.T Bro. Hamel. P.G. Bro. F. Millier and P.G. Bro. P. Thomson. The providing of light refreshments to the visitors concluded a memorable evening in the history of the Valley Lodge.  -Evening Star, 12/8/1919.

Thomas Dryden served with the NZ Engineers and was killed at a time when all Engineers were working on a "defence in depth" in preparation for the German army's Spring offensive.  The defences included protected positions for artillery and similar bases further behind the line in case of a successful German advance.  

Thomas died from a compound fracture of the skull on a day on which there was little actual combat.  It is possible that he was fatally wounded by an enemy sniper.

Northern Cemetery, Dunedin.