Private Thomas Ellis (died of wounds) sailed with the Fifth Reinforcements. He was born in Dunedin. and attended the Mosgiel District School, since when he had assisted his father, Mr John Ellis on the farm at Mosgiel. He was in his 22nd year, a fine horseman and marksman. -Evening Star, 7/9/1915.
Thomas Ellis died of a head wound received five days earlier. August 15th was a relatively quiet day, especially after the the failed August offensive on the Gallipoli Peninsula which saw New Zealand troops take the desired height of Chunuk Bair, and see its loss after they were relieved.
His head wound during a quiet period in the campaign would suggest that he was the victim of a sniper.
The rector's report at last night's meeting of the Mosgiel district High School contained reference to the death during the month at the Dardanelles of throe ex-pupils of the school — Walter Finlay, Geo. Gossage, and Thomas Ellis. In their honour the school flag was flown at half mast. The committee has decided to procure a roll of honour for names of ex-pupils of the school. -Otago Daily Times, 28/9/1915.
FOR THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE
IN MEMORIAM
ELLIS. — In loving memory of Thomas Ellis, who was killed in action at Gallipoli on August 9, 1915. — Inserted by his loving family. -Otago Witness, 9/8/1916.
At a social gathering at East Taieri last night reference was made to the death in action of Private Ken. Williamson, a young man who left the district a year ago. The audience, at the chairman's request, stood in silence for a few moments as a token of respect to his memory. Reference was also made to the death of Bombardier W. O'Brien and Private Harris, two Taieri young men whose death was reported the previous day. In memory of these two soldiers the flags were flow at half mast in Mosgiel yesterday. -Otago Daily Times, 14/9/1918.
Richard Harris died during the liberation of the French town of Bapaume, a hard battle against a German army which had failed in its Spring offensive earlier in the year but were still far from beaten.
FOR THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE
DEATHS
Harris. — On August 25. 1918, killed in action in France, Private Richard George (15th Reinforcements), dearly beloved brother of Mrs John Ellis, Mosgiel; aged 35 years.
He rose responsive to his country's call;
He gave his life, his best — his all.
HARRIS. — On August 25, 1918, killed in action "Somewhere in France," Private Richard George Harris (15th Reinforcements), beloved brother of Mrs E. Larkins, 50 Barr street Mornington; in his 35th year. He did his duty. -ODT, 17/9/1918.
FOR THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE
IN MEMORIAM
HARRIS. — In loving memory of Richard George Harris (15th Reinforcements), who was killed in action at Bapaume, August 26, 1918. — Inserted by his loving sister and brother-in-law, E. and J. Ellis and family.
HARRIS. — In fond and loving memory of Private Robert James Harris, who was killed in action at Fremicourt, near Bapaume, France, August 26, 1918.
We miss him most who loved him best.
— Inserted by his loving parents, brothers, and sisters. -Otago Witness, 29/8/1919.
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