- Joined
- 15 October 1958
- Memorial
- Local cenotaph or memorial
Tribute
Known to the men simply as "Padre Martin," he left his quiet country parish to share every mile of dust, mud, and danger alongside his battalion. Whether brewing a billy of tea in a bombed-out cellar, writing letters home for lads with bandaged hands, or carrying stretchers through the rubble of Cassino, his courage was as quiet and unshakeable as his faith.
He lost his life in Italy on 18 March 1944, refusing to leave an forward aid post under heavy shellfire. He carried no weapon, yet stood as a shield for the spirits of all who served beside him.
He tangata māhaki, he ngākau aroha. A gentle man, a compassionate heart.
Moe mai rā, Padre.
Operational service
- Korea (K-Force)
- Solomon Islands (RAMSI)
Other honours and awards
- New Zealand Special Service Medal
- Distinguished Conduct Medal
After service
- Territorial Force / Army Reserve