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