26/06/2026
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Cpl. Gilbert Heald, Wellington Battalion, was killed in action on 26th June 1915. [1]
L/Cpl. David Whitmore, Wellington Battalion, wrote that night about the fate of his friend.
โI hardly know how to write this, as my heart is heavy to-night. My brave chum and bosom friend fell tonight at 9 o'clock. Gill was shot through the head by the enemy, death being instantaneous. In fact, he never knew he was hit. I grieve for all you but I am more proud than ever of my chum in death than ever I can state. He was a good mate, but, a thousand times more, a better soldier. He had been in the thick of the fighting all the time, and always was willing to help others who were in difficulties, and all the boys would agree with me. Do not grieve for him. Gill lived a clean life, as I can prove myself. He played the man always, and he has died a noble death. I never wish for a better one myself. We are here to do our duty to mankind, that our loved ones may have freedom, and this must cost a few lives. But no man can have a more noble end than my old chum Gill. I have seen him for the last time just now. He had his nephew's (Ralph Hawker) letter in his pocket. I will attend to his things at daylight, and hand them over to our O.C., and they will be sent on. I will also let Jack (Gill's brother) know as soon as possible, as I do not know where he is at present, although he is well. We have had some heavy fighting since we landed, so there must be some casualties, and we never know who may be next. I must not forget to mention Gill was made a corporal two days ago.โ [2]
Buried in Shrapnel Valley Cemetery, he was the son of Ralph Heald, of 85 Mein Street, Wellington South.
[1] The Commonwealth War Graves Commission record his death as taking place on 27th June 1915. But this letter (and another from the following day) makes clear he died on 26th June.
[2] 'Feilding Star' (New Zealand), 18th August 1915.
Image: Gilbert Heald, 'Free Lance' (New Zealand), 6th August 1915.
