TRIBUTE TO OFFICER

New Zealand Herald, Volume 78, Issue 24050, 22 August 1941, Page 8

TRIBUTE TO OFFICER

SECOND-LIEUTENANT R. KING CAPTAIN OF LEAGUE TEAM A glowing tribute to Second-Lieu-tenant Rex King. of Christchurch, who was recently reported a prisoner of war. is paid bv his senior officer in a letter to .Mr. King]s wife. .Mr. King was captain ol the New Zealand Rugby League team which went to England in 1939 and was recalled owing to the war. 'Tie was a most brilliant and brave officer and has been recommended for a decoration lor outstanding courage, leadership and initiative." wrote tlie officer. "He commanded a platoon through Greece and in Crete until he \*as wounded. By his outstanding leadership and courage he quickly won the love of his men. "I was commanding the battalion when in' was wounded during the counter-attack on the village of Gnlatos in Crete. I sent two companies forward. one being commanded by SecondLieutenant King. The attack' was successful, and at the moment of success Rex, together with all the officers of his company was wounded." The wounds were caused by a bullet through the legs. He was sent back to an advanced dressing station, but unfortunately there was no transport and the dressing station and some of the doctors fell into the enemy's hands. "Let it be a consolation that Rex did more than his duty," concluded the letter. "By his fearlessness, bravery, initiative and leadership he saved us many casualties. Not only have we lost a very valuable officer, but I personally have lost a valuable friend." Second-Lieutenant King left wit!) the Second Echelon, and in Crete was reported wounded, then missing, and recently to be a prisoner of war.