Due to his service in the Second and not the First World War, James Coward's Army record is not available online. He is announced as wounded on December 9, 1941 and his Battalion, the 26th, fought hard in the Second Libyan Campaign the previous month.
James died in Dunedin so it can be assumed that he came home for hospital treatment. It can also be assumed, from a line in the following tributes, ("When we think of what he suffered, We would not wish him back again.") that his case was a painful one.
For the Empire's Cause.
COWARD. — In loving memory of my dear and friend, 12874 Private James John, who died of wounds on January 25, 1943.
Gone are the days we spent together, In loving friendship, kind and true.
His Cheery smile and hearty welcome, Were ever ready all day through.
Sweet is the spot where you are laid, Many a visit in silence is paid.
To lay down a flower in remembrance of thee, Never forgotten and never shall be.
— Inserted by his loving sister Lill and friends, Mr and Mrs Cassidy and family. R.I.P.
COWARD. — In loving memory of Private James John Coward, 12874, 26th Battalion, died of wounds January 25, 1943.
Calm and peaceful he is sleeping, Sweetest rest has followed pain.
When we think of what he suffered, We would not wish him back again.
— Inserted by his loving brother and sister, Frank and Doreen.
COWARD. — In loving memory of Private James John Coward, 12874, 26th Battalion, died of wounds January 25, 1943.
Not a day do we forget him, in our hearts he is always near.
As we loved him, so we miss him, As it dawns another year.
— Inserted by his loving brother and sister-in-law, Walter, Chrissie, niece and nephews.
COWARD. — In loving memory of Private James John Coward (Jim), 12874, 26th Battalion, died of wounds January 25, 1943.
No one knows the silent heartaches, Friends may think the wound is healed.
But they cannot see the sorrow, Deep within our hearts concealed.
His face is before us, His voice we will never forget.
His smile will linger forever. In our hearts he is with us yet.
— Inserted by his loving mother, brother, and sisters, Joan, Francis, Noel.
COWARD. — In loving memory of Private James John Coward, 12874, died of wounds, January 25, 1943.
Not a day do we forget him, In our hearts he is always near.
As we loved him, so we miss him. As it dawns another year.
— Inserted by Mary and brother-in-law Cyril (overseas), nieces.
COWARD. — In loving memory of my dear twin brother, Jim, who passed away January 25, 1943.
I have only a memory of you dear, To remember our whole life through;
But the sweetness will linger forever, As I treasure the picture of you.
— Inserted by his sister, Kate, and children, also brother Gerald. R.I.P. -Evening Star, 25/1/1945.
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