Tomorrow members of the Wellington branch NZA&HAA are putting together an ANZAC display for the RSA/Petone Working Men’s Club.
My first contribution for the display is a WW1 Service Dess Cap worn by Private George Ernest Richardson, 8/2307.
Richardson originally served in the 5th Wellington Regiment (A Company, No. 1 Platoon), which was sent to Samoa in August 1914. When the 5th Wellington Regiment returned to New Zealand in 1915, rather than wait and join the NZ Rifle Brigade that was formed from members of the 5th Regiment, Richardson transferred to the 10th North Otago Regiment and embarked with the 4th Reinforcements.
Richardson landed on Gallipoli on the 8th June 1915, and was wounded on Chunuk Bair on the 8th August 1915. After recovering from his wounds, Richardson rejoined his unit in March 1916 and embarked for France the following month. On the 16th September 1916, Richardson was again wounded in action and sent back to New Zealand in November 1916.
My second contribution is a NZMR lance pennant which was battle damaged at El Mazar in September 1917.
10th North Otago Regiment, Private George Ernest Richardson 8-2307, 4th Reinforcements.jpg
10th North Otago Regiment, Private George Ernest Richardson 8-2307, 4th Reinforcements...jpg
NZMR lance pennant battle damage El Mazar 16th - 17th September 1917.jpg
NZMR lance pennant battle damage El Mazar 16th - 17th September 1917..jpg