Staff Sergeant John William O'Brien and unknown Australian 1916

Date1916Reference NumberPhoto 14-0189DescriptionAustralian Light Horse and New Zealand Mounted Rifles. The Australian (at right) is unknown. The New Zealander is 11/109 Staff Sergeant John William O'Brien of the Wellington Mounted Rifles.

Public relations exercise showing the Australian Light Horse and New Zealand Mounted Rifles. The New Zealander (left) is 11/109 Staff Sergeant John William O'Brien of the Wellington Mounted Rifles. Trooper John O'Brien was born in 1883 in Deal, Kent but lived in Wellington New Zealand when war broke out. He volunteered for the Wellington Mounted Rifles after walking a friend, Jack Doolan, down to sign up. Jack at the last minute refused to do so unless John did as well.

John was wounded in Gallipoli on the 9th of August 1915 and sent to England to recuperate. He arrived at Hornchurch Hospital in London on September 4 that same year. He rose through the ranks, first being sent to the Records Office at base depot Hornchurch, then promoted to Corporal (December 15, 1915). On the 31st of January 1916, he became Acting Sergeant, then promoted to Staff Sergeant (June 1916) and Company Sergeant 2nd class at W.O. (4th of August 1916). His final promotion was May 30 1919 when he was made W.O. 1st class and awarded the M.S.M. "in recognition of valuable service rendered during the campaign" (London Gazette, Twelve Supplement).FormatPrint

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Kaitiakitanga StatementWe ask that, in addition to normal copyright and privacy considerations, users of our heritage resources uphold the mana and dignity of the people, communities and places depicted within.Cultural/Ethical StatusNoaRestrictionsNo cultural/ethical restrictions apply. However, copyright may apply.CopyrightCopyright may apply. Please contact us if you have information regarding the copyright status of this item. AcknowledgementTe Ao Mārama - Tauranga City Libraries Photo 14-0189

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PeopleW.O.1st Class John William O'Brien (WWI) 1883-1966Part of Photograph CollectionOther images

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Staff Sergeant John William O'Brien and unknown Australian 1916

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