WITH THE HAURAKIS.

Auckland Star, Volume XLVI, Issue 309, 29 December 1915, Page 6

WITH THE HAURAKIS.

ALMOST THE LAST OF THEM.

FIVE MONTHS AT ANZAC.

Private C. W. Barnes, who went away with the 6th (Hauraki) Company in the main body, can claim a lengthy acquaintance with the hills and hollows of Anzac Cove. He took part in tho landing on 25th April, and except for a brief rest on Lemnos Island was through the defence until September last. Although he took part in some of the most trying engagements he was fortunate enough to escape actual bodily injury by shell or bullet. Then after the excitement of the move in August he got severe concussion as the result of high explosive shell burst. "I'd been having one close shave after another for months," said Private Barnes, "and I could not help wondering day by day, as one after another of my mates was taken, when my turn was coming. When I left Anzac there were only four of the 'originals' left. One was Lieutenant Holland, who has since transferred to the loth North Auckland Regiment. Lieutenant Holland left Egypt as a lance-corporal, and was promoted in the fieli in recognition of his gallant conduct i i advance movements."

Private F. Swiudley, of the Main Body, New Zealand Medical Corps, had the unusual experience of making his first landing at Cape Helles. He was attached to the Australian Forces for the time, and went ashore with them on the 26th April. He was through some strenuous work with the wounded at the Cape, and a little later rejoined the New Zealanders at Anzac Cove. He was on the peninsula for some months, serving at Courtney's, Quinn's, nnd Walker's Posts. He left the peninsula after being wounded in the leg. At the same time he was in the grip of dysentery and rheumatism, and it is evident that he is still far from well.