PRO PATRIA PROJECT

KENNEDY Donald

SA8830 Private 10th Contingent, South Africa

26/56 Captain, 2nd Battalion, New Zealand Rifle Brigade, WW1

CITATION

Distinguished Service Order

Gazetted 11 January 1919, p588, Rec No 2602

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Prior to the attack this officer gained valuable information by a reconnaissance, and in the attack he guided his company through a wood which was partly held by the enemy and seized the ridge beyond. Although both his flanks were exposed, he beat off a counter-attack. During the following days, with little sleep, continually exposed to shell and machine-gun fire, and in an area deluged by gas, he was in the thick of the fighting, encouraging his men in every way.

CITATION

Military Cross

Gazetted 16 August 1917, p8396

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During an attack he was of the utmost assistance to his Commanding Officer, personally carrying forward messages under intense shell fire, and taking command of the battalion for several hours during the absence of a senior officer. His work throughout the attack has been of the highest order.

CITATION

Mention in Despatched

Gazetted 4 January 1917, p262, Rec No 347

For coolness and devotion to duty throughout the operations near Flers on the 15th and 16th September 1916. He was of great assistance to his Commanding Officer throughout the operations, especially when Headquarters of the 4th Battalion, 3rd New Zealand (Rifle) Brigade were established at Pat Trench within 100 yards of the objective when it had first been reached. Lieutenant Kennedy took down and despatched important messages under very heavy shell fire. This officer has been Adjutant of his Battalion since its arrival in France last April and has always done exceptionally good work.

CITATION

Mention in Despatches

Gazetted 11 July 1919, p8837

For distinguished and gallant services and devotion to duty during the period 16th September 1918, to 15th March 1919.

KNOWN AWARDS

Distinguished Service Order

Military Cross

Queen's South Africa Medal