The Queen's South Africa Medal and 1914/15 Star issued to Hugh Linklater, who was awarded the Military Medal for his bravery displayed during a trench raid in France in June 1916.

 

Hugh Linklater was born 4th January 1880 at Waimea, Nelson. Son of Hugh and Mary Anne Linklater (née Hunter). Following his education he moved to Thames to work as a miner. He was serving with the Hauraki Rifle Volunteers when he was selected for service with the 7th NZMR Contingent in South Africa. He served a full tour before returning to New Zealand in 1902. There is some evidence he transferred to the 9th NZMR Contingent in South Africa but this will need verification.

 

Prior to the First World War Linklater was a self-employed farmer in Westland. He enlisted in August 1915 with the Canterbury Mounted Rifles, arriving in Egypt in November 1915. In early 1916 he transferred to the 2nd Field Company, NZ Field Engineers and deployed to France. On the night of 25/26 June 1916 he performed the deed which earned him the Military Medal. The recommendation read: "For good work done in enemy trench on night of 25/26th June. This sapper during the Raid by a party of the 2nd Bn, 3rd N.Z. (Rifle) Brigade after every one else had left the trench, remained behind to fire a charge. A pumping engine and plant were destroyed". The award of the MM was announced in the London Gazette 21/9/1916. Linklater was appointed T/Lance-Corporal in July 1916. In October 1917 he was nominated for a commission and posted to the UK. In February 1918 he was appointed 2nd lieutenant and posted back to the NZ Field Engineers. He returned to the front in August 1918, where he was wounded in late October 1918.

 

Hugh Linklater died 13/08/1952 at Palmerston North, and is buried in Palmerston North (Kelvin Grove) Cemetery.

 

The QSA is correctly impressed 4068 CORPL: H. LINKLATER, 7th N. Z'LAND M.R. and the 1914/15 Star is correctly impressed 7/1755 2/LT. H. LINKLATER. N.Z.E.F. The whereabouts of his MM, BWM and VM are unknown.