REMEMBERING THOSE WHO SERVED: Lance Sergeant Dudley McKenzie

Service No: 32879
Lance Sergeant, NZ Rifle Brigade. Previously a farmer. Son of William and Catherine McKenzie of Waimatuku, Southland. Born at Wairio (just north of Otautau). Served on the Western Front, 1917-18. Accidently drowned, 8 Feb 1919, age 24.

"Private Dudley McKenzie, 32879. 19th reinforcements. Lance Sergeant NZRB. A farmer from Te Tua. Awarded the Military Medal for acts of gallantry in the field, 15th of October 1917. Wounded in action on the 26th of August 1918, Bapuame suffering from a gun shot wound to the hip. Accidentally drowned at Rona Bay on the 8th of February 1919, buried in Tuatapere" - [this extra information taken from a post  showing a postcard (photo attached) of Dudley and others from the Tuatpere District], which can be found on https://www.facebook.com/Southland-Soldiers-and-Nurses--475275315971555/
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From Northern Advocate, 10 Feb 1919:
BATHING TRAGEDY. 
RETURNED SOLDIER DROWNED 
GALLANT RESCUE EFFORTS 
WELLINGTON, Feb 10
A returned soldier, named Dudley McKenzie, a Military Medallist, was drowned at Rona Bay on Saturday afternoon. McKenzie was not a swimmer and got into difficulties in a strong undercurrent. A companion. Harrison, managed to reach McKenzie, but being only a moderate swimmer was unable to hold him. Ernest Hunt also made a strenuous attempt at rescue, but became exhausted. Harrison was floating away with the tide, but fortunately was rescued by a passing rowing boat. McKenzie's body was recovered on Saturday night, two miles from the scene of the accident.-Press Assn.


From Honours and Awards (first edition):
Military Medal - Private, 3rd Bn, Otago Regiment
L.G. 17 December 1917, p13201, Rec No 1272
"At Gravenstafel east of Ypres. On the morning of the 4th of October, 1917, during the attack on the enemy, this man showed great gallantry in attacking a "Pill Box" was captured. Also in consolidating the position his work was excellent. At all times he set a fine example to his comrades."
Accidently drowned new Zealand, 8 February 1919.

NOTE: we have no photo of Lance Sergeant Dudley McKenzie, if you can help us by adding one to our collection, please contact Collections Manager as below - thankyou.
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You're always welcome at our place on Sundays, 2pm-4pm, and by request on other days, just contact us on Email: collections.otautaumuseum@gmail.com  Cell: 027-211-4675 or Ph: 03-225-8991