Sunday 3 November 2024

61091 Rifleman William Gerrie, (14/5/1897-21/5/1918). "too dearly loved"


Mr William Gerrie, Dunedin, has received advice that his son, William, was killed in action on May 21. The deceased was born in Oamaru, and was educated at the Kaikorai School. Up till the time of enlisting he worked for Mr Wilson, grocer, King street.  -Otago Daily Times, 8/6/1918.



MR and MRS WILLIAM GERRIE and Family wish to THANK all kind friends for their many expressions of sympathy in the loss of their dear Son and Brother.  -Oamaru Mail, 12/6/1918.


FOR THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE

DEATHS

GERRIE.  In loving memory of our dear son, Rifleman William Gerrie, who was killed in action at Hebuturne, Somme Valley, May 21 1918; aged 21 years.

Too dearly loved to be forgotten. 

— Inserted by his loving parents, sister, and brother.  -Otago Daily Times, 21/5/1918.


William Gerrie was killed at a time when the German Army's Spring offensive had been halted and before the period of advance to the east - sometimes rapid, sometimes not - which ended in the November Armistice.  I have found no reference in the NZ Rifle Brigade's Official History to action on the day of his death.


Andersons Bay Cemetery, Dunedin.

    

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