The Military Medal awarded to James Somerville for his gallantry and leadership during the Battle of Messines.

 

James Somerville was born 31st January 1893 at Howick, Auckland. Son of George and Margaret Somerville. At the time of his enlistment in 1916 he was working as a farmer in Howick. He embarked with the 14th Reinforcements, Auckland Infantry Regiment and joined his unit (B Company, 2nd Battalion) in October 1916. In January 1917 he transferred to 3rd Light Trench Mortar Battery. On 8th June 1917 during the opening phase of the Battle of Messines Somerville performed the acts that saw him recommended for the Military Medal.

"For conspicuous gallantry in action. He assumed command of his trench mortar on his detachment commander becoming a casualty and later when all his men were wounded he kept his mortar in action until relieved."

 

Just two weeks later, on 24th June he was fatally wounded in action. He lies buried in Strand Military Cemetery.

 

The Military Medal is correctly impressed 14501 PTE J. SOMERVILLE. 2 / 3 N.Z. RIF: BDE:

Service file held at Archives New Zealand