THE PRO PATRIA PROJECT
WILSON Newman Robert
6/1433, Major, 2nd Battalion, Canterbury Regiment, WW1
CITATION
Distinguished Service Order
Gazetted 1 January 1919, p23
Operations - Bapaume area. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during the recent advance in the Bapaume area. This officer commanded a Battalion during recent operations from 6th August 1918 to 13th September 1918. Of each of the three occasions on which the Battalion was engaged, his skilful dispositions ensured a minimum of casualties and were crowned with success. His complete contempt of danger, his cheerfulness and personal leadership inspired all ranks under him with confidence and determination. This officer has always shown conspicuous energy and initiative and set a fine example of devotion to duty. His tactical and administrative abilities are markedly high.
Military Cross
Gazetted 1 January 1918, p53
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Captain Wilson commanded his ompany in the battle of Messines on the 7th June 1917, leading it with great coolness and courage through the village, and even after being wounded he still carried on encouraging his men until he became exhausted. He refused to leave the line although badly wounded until he had sent reports to Batttalion Headquarters and reorganised his Company. Captain Wilson has been seriously wounded on three occasions during this war and I consider him deserving of special distinction.
Mention in Despatches
Gazetted 31 December 1918, p15231
Mentioned in Sir D. Haig's despatch dated 8 November 1918 submitting names deserving of special mention
KNOWN AWARDS
Distinguished Service Order
Military Cross
1914-15 Star
British War Medal
Victory Medal
Mention in DespatchesColonial Auxiliary Forces Decoration
Colonial Auxiliary Forces Long Service Medal
New Zealand Long and Efficient Service Medal
New Zealand Territorial Service Medal
Gallipoli Medallion
NOTES
Born 31 August 1888, Waimate, New Zealand
Died 15 January 1940, Dunedin, New Zealand
