THE PRO PATRIA PROJECT
JENNINGS William Ivan Kirke
8/912, Major, New Zealand Machine Gun Corps, WW1

CITATION
Distinguished Service Order
Gazetted 1 january 1919, p22
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty.  For the period 25th February 1918 to the 16th September 1918 Major Jennings has held the position of Brigade Major, 1st New Zealand Infantry Brigade.  During the whole time his conduct and work have been of the highest order.  The Brigade has been in action almost continuously and he has been almost daily round the line under the heaviest shellfire.  His reconnaissances have been of the greatest value and the assistnace he has rendered to the Battalion Commanders has in a large manner contributed to the success which has attended the brigade.  Major Jennings's coolness under fire and his quick grasp of the situation at critical moments are worthy of the highest praise.

Mention in Despatches
Gazetted 28 December 1917, p13574
For devotion to duty prior to Messines operations as Divisional Machine Gun Officerand subsequently was GSO3.  By his energy and ability he has rendered distinguished and valuable service in both appointments

Mention in Despatches
Gazetted 31 December 1918, p15230
Sir D. Haig's despatch dated 8 November 1918 submitting names deserving of special mention

KNOWN AWARDS
Distinguished Service Order
1914-15 Star
British War Medal
Victory Medal
       Mention in Despatches (2)
Coronation Medal 1937

NOTES
Born 21 July 1892, Christchurch, New Zealand
Died 23 June 1982, Wellington, New Zealand