R. Godfray Elder

Certificate provided with kind permission of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. http://www.cwgc.org

R. G. Elder from the photo of 1917 Rugby First Fifteen

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Robert Godfray Elder was in the 46th Machine Gunners at Featherston Military Camp having enlisted in 1918 when he died of an illness contracted there. He had enrolled at Canterbury Agricultural College in 1916 but had a serious motor accident which weakened him and he was unable to complete the military service he had enlisted for. Source: Canterbury Agricultural College Magazine.

Date of Birth2nd October 1898Date of Death02 Aug 1918In MemoriamThe news that Godfray Elder had died as the result of an illness contracted in Featherston Military Camp, aroused a feeling of deep and abiding grief in all Lincoln College students. Elder was born on October 2nd, 1898, and was the son of Mr. H. R. Elder, of '' Waimahoe,'' Waikanae. He received his early education at Wanganui Collegiate School, and subsequently entered Lincoln Agricultural College in 1916. Although scarcely nineteen years of age, acting under the guidance of a lofty sense of duty, he enlisted early in 1918 in order that he might serve his country. He entered camp in May, and joined up with the 46th Machine Gunners. He had not been long in camp, however, when he contracted an illness which caused his demise on August 2nd. Those of us who knew Godfray Elder need not be told that he died as he lived, cheerfully and courageously, prepared to face the task before him and see it through, admitting no thought of defeat or withdrawal. Strong in character but gentle in manner, he commanded to an unusual degree the esteem and affection of all with whom he came in contact. He was always eager to relieve others of their burden, or share it with them. Chivalrous and generous he disregarded himself and was never careful to promote his own material interests. The enthusiasm, vigour, and self-effacement he showed in athletics, whether in cricket, football, or swimming, are well known to all. He was ever the same bright, cheery, open-hearted, good comrade, a staunch friend and a true one. His death was that which patriots and soldiers in all ages have deemed most to be desired, and his going leaves us with a sense of irreparable loss. To his parents and friends we extend our very genuine sympathy.SourceCanterbury Agricultural College Magazine, May 1919, p.602PersonR. Godfray ElderMilitary Serial Number81208Military RankPrivateExternal LinkCenotaph DatabaseCommonwealth War Graves CommissionNew Zealand War Graves ProjectMilitary personnel fileKeywordsGreat WarWorld War OneRoll of Honouractive serviceWanganui CollegiateFeatherston Military Camp

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R. Godfray Elder