DEATH NOW ASSUMED: MYSTERY OF TALL N.Z. SOLDIER

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23042, 5 September 1949, Page 6

DEATH NOW ASSUMED: MYSTERY OF TALL N.Z. SOLDIER

The disappearance of a young soldier, Private Douglas Neil Henry, nearly eight years ago, was recalled in the Supreme Court. His executrix applied before Mr. Justice Callan for leave to swear that he had died on or since September 24, 1941. His Honour granted leave. Henry, aged 22, was the son of Mrs. E. Henry, Te Akau, and was a member of the Expeditionary Force and was home on leave from Trentham Camp when he disappeared. He was last seen when he left the home of Mr. A. Kellow, Ruakiwi, at 11.30 on the night of September 24, 1941, to return to his home eight miles away.

Early next day his motor car was found one and a half miles from Mr. Kellow’s house. The front wheels were in a drain. One of the tyres was punctured and the keys were missing.

Nearly 200 men, including police, territorials, and local residents took part in a widespread search. The Waikato River and the Raglan Harbour were dragged and the search covered creek beds near Te Akau and West Cohst beaches but not a trace of the man was found.

Members of the family said at the time that they suspected foul play. Private Henry was of exceptional build. He was 6ft. Gin. tall and weighed 16st. He was bearing battledress.

When he disappeared he had been granted extended leave by a mannower committee to put his family’s business affairs in order following the death of his father.