Skegness Magazine

A Gallant Anzac

A Skegnessian from the Antipodes

Particulars have now reached us, containing a letter from the Commanding Officer, as to how Sapper Charles Dunn, of the New Zealand Engineers, who was killed in action the 9th of June, met his death.

The deceased, who was born at Church House, Skegness, on May 1st, 1885, was the youngest son of the late Mr and Mrs John Dunn, verger of St Matthew’s Church and sexton of St Clement’s. Apprenticed as a joiner to Mr G G Dunkley, builder and contractor, of this town, and left for New Zealand in January, 1909.
One of the first to enlist in the New Zealand Engineers for overseas, was sent to Egypt, where he remained until August, 1916, when the Anzacs came to England and encamped on Salisbury Plain. Within nine days they were sent to France, where he met his death in the glorious struggle for freedom and right. Unfortunately he was not able to visit any of his relatives during his short stay in the old country.

The gallant young fellow had made great progress during his residence in New Zealand and had, just previous to the war, passed the final examination as an architect.

The following letter was received by his sister, Mrs Mackinder, Netherfield, Notts,. from the officer commanding:-

In The Field
I very much regret to have to inform you that your brother, Number 12018, Sapper Charles Dunn, of 1st Field Company, New Zealand Engineers, was killed in action on the 7th June.
He was employed on engineering work, with about 50 other men, when the enemy suddenly opened out with heavy shell fire. One of the shells exploded near your brother, wounding him very seriously in the head. First aid was immediately rendered and within a few moments Charlie received attention from the Medical Officer. However, the wound was so serious that he died within a quarter of an hour.

Charlie was a good soldier, very thorough though quiet. He will be greatly missed by his comrades, with whom he was very popular. He was buried on the battlefield before Messines, on the 8th instant, a small party assembling to pay their last respects to one who fell, serving his country.

The sympathy, not only of myself, but of all the Officers and the whole Company, goes out to you in this your sad loss. May you find comfort in the fact that your brother, in laying down his life for his friends so unflinchingly, has made the greatest sacrifice that man has ever been called upon to make.
With deep regret,
Yours sincerely,
L M Shera (Major)
Officer Commanding

Source: Skegness, Mablethorpe and Alford News