Ernest Clarke

Died May 18, 1963, at Timaru, New Zealand

Father: James Clarke (November 9, 1867-September 25, 1902)

Mother: Amelia Martha Elizabeth Anderson (1873-July 31, 1945)

Ernest Clarke was born at Timaru on June 2, 1895, and entered camp on September 20, 1916. He embarked for the United Kingdom with the 21st Reinforcements on January 19, 1917, and proceeded to France on active service in May, 1917, as a Private, 7th Company, 1st Battalion, Wellington Infantry Regiment. On October 16, 1917, he became ill and was evacuated to a hospital in the United Kingdom. On September 30, 1918, he returned to France, and rejoined his unit in the field on October 8, 1918. He returned to New Zealand on May 16, 1919, and was discharged on June 12, 1919, after total service of two years 117 days. For his service he was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.

In World War II, Ernest Clarke served within New Zealand as Sergeant, New Zealand Temporary Staff, from August 1, 1941, to April 16, 1948, and was awarded the War Medal 1939-45 and the New Zealand War Service Medal.

Spouse: Mary Fahey (1894-May 12, 1974)