THE PRO PATRIA PROJECT

COCKERILL Allan Richmond

8/744, Second Lieutenant, Otago Regiment, WW1

CITATION

Distinguished Service Order

Gazetted 26 November 1947

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty.  While he was endeavouring to fill a gap on his left flank during an attack (Passchendaele, October 1917), his platoon came under heavy fire from some pillboxes and an enemy trench.  He at once led his men to the attack, capturing the garrison of the trench, and eventually by a skilful manoeuvre, put the pillbox out of action.  He was cut off from his company and all of his platoon had become casualties, but he took command of a few men (Australians) near him and held his position when the rest of the advance was held up.  Later he rejoined his company, took command and consolidated the new position.  He showed the greatest gallantry, coolness and leadership throughout

KNOWN AWARDS

Distinguished Service Order

1914-15 Star

British War Medal

Victory Medal

Defence Medal

War Medal 1939-45

New Zealand War Service Medal

New Zealand Long and Efficient Service Medal

New Zealand Territorial Service Medal

NOTES

Born 21 November 1891, McCrea’s Flat, New Zealand

Died 7 February 1975, Gore, New Zealand