Country: New Zealand
Issued on: Return
Date of presentation: 07/08/1901
Number issued: 1
Gold pendant, to:
5th New Zealand Mouted Rifles –
2286 Trooper David William REID
Presentation made by Mr S. Strachan, in the Foresters' Hall, Feilding.
A gift from Trooper Reid's parents.
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Feilding Star, 8th August 1901
Welcome Social.
In the Foresters' Hall last evening Trooper D. REID was entertained at a social by his old school-mates, and by Makino residents, as a fitting recognition of his safe return from the war in South Africa. About one hundred people were present. During the evening Trooper REID was the recipient of an illuminated address from his entertainers, and a gold watch-chain pendant. The presentation was made on behalf of the donors by Mr S. Strachan, of Halcombe, who, during his term of office in Feilding school, had Trooper REID as a pupil. In making the presentation Mr Strachan apologised for the absence of Mr Lethbridge, M.H.R., who was detained by his Parliamentary duties. Mr Strachan said it gave him great pleasure to make the presentation on behalf of his ex-pupils and the school-fellows of Trooper REID. He had a double pleasure in making it. He was delighted to honour those who sacrificed themselves to fight the battles of the realm, and it delighted him to see the advancement of an old pupil. He congratulated Trooper REID on the latter's safe return, but he would prefer death to dishonour. The colonial subjects of the empire had given an object lesson to the world, and had fulfilled the prediction, made 20 years ago, that Britain's colonies would be a source of strength, and not weakness, to her. The war had taught another lesson: that it was necessary to have men who could shoot and ride well. The address would be a lasting memento of a memorable event. Mr Strachan then read the address, which was as follows: — "To Trooper D.W. Reid, Fifth N.Z. Contingent. Dear Sir: — On behalf of your old school-fellows and Makino friends, we desire to take advantage of this opportunity to congratulate you on your safe return from South Africa. We feel proud of the manner in which you have responded to the Empire's call, and of the noble example you have set to young New Zealanders, for all time, in upholding the honour of the flag. We ask your acceptance of this address in the hope it may serve to remind you in after years of the kindly feelings which prompt this presentation. We remain, yours truly — (Signed) F.Y. Lethbridge, M.H.R, G. Rink, H. Reid, J. Peterkin; August 7th, 1901". In presenting the pendant, Mr Strachan said it was a token of affection from his (Trooper Reid's) parents. No one could realise what a mother suffered in letting her son go to the war. The souvenir on the obverse side being "Brittania" and the representatives of the various colonies which sent contingents to South Africa, and the reverse side showing a representation of men firing from behind rocks — was emblematic of events in South Africa. At the conclusion of Mr Strachan's remarks cheers were given for Trooper REID, who briefly replied, expressing his thanks for the honour conferred on him. During the evening songs were given by Mr Bowater, and a recitation by Mr Strachan. Dancing was kept up with vigour until a late hour this morning. Mr E. Walton presided at the piano, extras being played by Miss Holder and Mr S. Barrow. An abundance of refreshments was provided, and the gathering was most enjoyable.
EMBARKATION DATABASE
Surname: REID
Reg No: 2286
Given Names: David William
Contingent: Fifth
Rank: Private
Unit: No 12 Company (Wellington Section)
Joined from: Manchester Rifles (5 yrs)
County/City: Manawatu
Age: 21 years, 5 months
Occupation: Farmer
Ship: “Waiwera”, 31 March 1900
Address: Makino
Next of Kin: Reid, Mr William
Next of Kin Address: Makino (same)
Relationship to Soldier: father
