The 1914/15 Star trio issued to 2/17 William John Alexander, who served during the capture of Samoa in August 1914, with D Battery, NZ Field Artillery.

 

William John Alexander was born 18th July 1891 at Wellington, New Zealand. Son of John and Emily Mary Alexander (née Cook). He saw territorial service with the Zealandia Rifles and D Battery, NZFA, and was serving with the latter when he enlisted for service on the outbreak of war on 4th August 1914. At the time of his enlistment he was working as a printer for Whitcombe and Tombs Ltd.

 

Alexander served as a gunner with the sole NZ Field Artillery Battery sent to capture Samoa from the German occupying forces. He remained in Samoa with his unit until returning to New Zealand in March 1915, and was discharged. He married Amelia Agnes Morris in 1917 before re-enlisting in August 1917. He served in camp with various reinforcement drafts but did not embark for further active service beyond New Zealand. William Alexander died in Wellington on 20th August 1977, and is buried in Taita Cemetery.

 

All medals are correctly impressed 2/17 GNR. A.J. ALEXANDER. N.Z.E.F. an are mounted with original ribbons on a pin.