V.C. HERO

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIII, Issue 9999, 17 June 1918, Page 2

V.C. HERO

SEROEANT ANDREWS TO RETURN SHORTLY. In this issue appears the name of Sergeant Leslie Andrews, who is duo to arrive shortly. He is the son of Mrs P. Andrews, of Wanganui East. Sergeant Andrews entered Trentham Camp—when ho was only 18—-with the 11th n.c.o. class, and qualified for a commission, hut was not posted on account of his being too young,. Later he was transferred to the 12th Reinforcement. with which body ho sailed. The work for which Sergeant ■ Andrews gained his distinction is well known. While out on a scouting expedition Sergeant' Andrews, with TJrivato J. E. (“Barney”) Ryan, of Tanmarunui, camo upon a party of German machine-gunners. They killed some of the crow, and took the rest prisoner. AVhen returning to hand the Gormans over, however, a second gun opened fire upon them. Sergeant Andxows threatened the prisoners at the point of the bayonet that if they did not toll where the second party were it would bo all the worse for them. The Germans told, and Private Ryan held them while Sergeant Andrews went and captured the second lot. For this brave action lie was awarded the highest honour which a soldier can get. Private R.yan was awarded the D.C.M. Since then ho has gained the Military Medal. Upon liia return ‘Sergeant Andrews will he given charge of a company. In civil Sergeant Andrews wa-s a keen territorial enthusiast and waa the holder of both the marksman’s and signaller’s badges. Ho belonged to ihf Railway Engineers Battalion.