THE PRO PATRIA PROJECT

BENNETT Charles Moihi Te Arawaka

6121, Lieutenant Colonel, 28 (Maori) Battalion

CITATION

Distinguished Service Order

In the attack on the Roman Wall position on 26 March 1943, Lieutenant Colonel Bennett’s Battalion became directly engaged with a German battalion holding Point 209.  A desperate struggle ensued between the two units which continued unceasingly for two hours and ended with the surrender of the enemy remnants to a final attack launched by Lieutenant Colonel Bennett with a fine exhibition of will power and skill.  Throughout this very severe action he displayed initiative and determination of a high order and qualities of leadership and courage which were an inspiration to his battalion

AWARDS

Knight Bachelor (KB)

Distinguished Service Order

1939-45 Star

Africa Star with bar 8th ARMY

Defence Medal

War Medal 1939-45

NZ War service Medal

Commendation Medal of Merit and Honour

NOTES

Born 27 July 1913, Rotorua, NZ

Died