New Zealand Rifle Brigade Reinforcement Drafts from World War 1
The New Zealand Rifle Brigade was formed in early 1915, and was initially called the Trentham Regiment, as this was where it was based and formed
It was granted the title "Earl of Liverpool's Own" on the 1st of May in honor of the then Governor of New Zealand, Arthur William de Brito Savile Foljambe, the 2nd Earl of Liverpool (1912–20).
Initially at its formation, there were just two Battalions of the NZRB, the 1st and 2nd. But in August 1915, the Regiment was expanded to include a 3rd and 4th Battalion. They would fight as individual units in the field, and also have individual Reinforcement drafts associated with each Battalion. At the end of August 1915, the crest of Liverpool was adopted as their Badge, it was also here that they changed the Regimental title to "The Trentham Rifle Brigade" (Earl of Liverpool's Own).
On the 18th of September 1915, advanced parties from the 1st and 2nd Battalions were sent overseas to Egypt, while the Officers and men of the 3rd and 4th Battalions started to arrive at camp in New Zealand to begin training.
On the 1st of October 1915, the Regiment was redesignated the "The New Zealand Rifle Brigade—Earl of Liverpool's Own."
It was granted the title "Earl of Liverpool's Own" on the 1st of May in honor of the then Governor of New Zealand, Arthur William de Brito Savile Foljambe, the 2nd Earl of Liverpool (1912–20).
Initially at its formation, there were just two Battalions of the NZRB, the 1st and 2nd. But in August 1915, the Regiment was expanded to include a 3rd and 4th Battalion. They would fight as individual units in the field, and also have individual Reinforcement drafts associated with each Battalion. At the end of August 1915, the crest of Liverpool was adopted as their Badge, it was also here that they changed the Regimental title to "The Trentham Rifle Brigade" (Earl of Liverpool's Own).
On the 18th of September 1915, advanced parties from the 1st and 2nd Battalions were sent overseas to Egypt, while the Officers and men of the 3rd and 4th Battalions started to arrive at camp in New Zealand to begin training.
On the 1st of October 1915, the Regiment was redesignated the "The New Zealand Rifle Brigade—Earl of Liverpool's Own."
NZRB Reinforcements
Like their Infantry and Mounted Rifle counterparts, the NZRB Reinforcement was allowed to privately purchase and wear a brass cap and collar badges. These were exactly the same as their Infantry counterparts, except that a different "Draft" letter was used on the front with the Reinforcement number.
Generally they were as follows:
E - 1st Battalion NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcements
F - 2nd Battalion NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcements
G - 3rd Battalion NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcements
H - 4th Battalion NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcements
J - used as both Infantry and NZRB Reinforcements.
The advance party of the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade left with the 6th Reinforcements on the 16th of Sept 1915 with the 2nd Maori Contingent and Infantry Reinforcements.
It contained the following:
- The 1st Battalion of the NZRB - 1 Officers & 50 Other Ranks
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 1 Officers & 50 Other Ranks
Vessel used from Wellington: Waitemata - Wellington to Suez - 38 days duration.
Generally they were as follows:
E - 1st Battalion NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcements
F - 2nd Battalion NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcements
G - 3rd Battalion NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcements
H - 4th Battalion NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcements
J - used as both Infantry and NZRB Reinforcements.
The advance party of the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade left with the 6th Reinforcements on the 16th of Sept 1915 with the 2nd Maori Contingent and Infantry Reinforcements.
It contained the following:
- The 1st Battalion of the NZRB - 1 Officers & 50 Other Ranks
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 1 Officers & 50 Other Ranks
Vessel used from Wellington: Waitemata - Wellington to Suez - 38 days duration.
Early Type NZRB Badges
Below are some examples of the early type ELO or Earl of Liverpool Own Cap badges, worn by the initial drafts. Nearly all I have encountered seem to have a brooch fitting to back. The handful I have seen with lugs, show signs that they have been modified later, and maybe initially had a brooch fitting.
- Above: A two piece ELO Cap badge. This is the frame type with NZ in circles on the wreath. Die stamped frame with the center soldered onto front. Brooch fitting to back which is missing the pin.
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- Above: A two piece ELO2 Cap badge. This is a solid backed with the center soldered onto front. Brooch fitting to back, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A two piece ELO2 Cap badge. This is the frame type with NZ on the wreath and "R" for Reinforcement to base. Die stamped frame with the center soldered onto front. Brooch fitting to back.
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There is also a ELO1 which I am missing in the sequence.
The 7th Reinforcements left NZ on the 9th of Oct 1915.
It contained the following.
- Headquarters - 3 Officers & 23 Other Ranks
- The 1st Battalion of the NZRB - 29 Officers & 982 Other Ranks
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 29 Officers & 994 Other Ranks
Vessels used from Wellington: Maunganui, Tahiti, Aparima, Navua and Warrimoo - Wellington to Suez - 36 to 41 days duration.
The 7th Reinforcements left NZ on the 9th of Oct 1915.
It contained the following.
- Headquarters - 3 Officers & 23 Other Ranks
- The 1st Battalion of the NZRB - 29 Officers & 982 Other Ranks
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 29 Officers & 994 Other Ranks
Vessels used from Wellington: Maunganui, Tahiti, Aparima, Navua and Warrimoo - Wellington to Suez - 36 to 41 days duration.
8th Draft and Onwards
As well as the above, from the 8th Reinforcement onwards, the NZRB Reio's wore:
- Above: A 2 piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 8th E Company Reinforcements (1st Batt NZRB). Die stamped, with two brass wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A 2 piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 8th F Company Reinforcements (2nd Batt NZRB). Solid backed, and on a smaller frame to the opposite badge, it has a brooch fitting to back. No maker mark.
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The 8th Reinforcements were the 2nd draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalion of NZRB, and left NZ on the 14th of Nov 1915.
It contained the following.
- Headquarters - 4 Other Ranks
- The 1st Battalion of the NZRB - 5 Officers & 202 Other Ranks
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 5 Officers & 196 Other Ranks
Vessels used from Wellington: Willochra and Tofua - Wellington to Suez - 35 days duration.
It contained the following.
- Headquarters - 4 Other Ranks
- The 1st Battalion of the NZRB - 5 Officers & 202 Other Ranks
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 5 Officers & 196 Other Ranks
Vessels used from Wellington: Willochra and Tofua - Wellington to Suez - 35 days duration.
- Above: A 2 piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th E Company Reinforcements (1st Batt NZRB). Die stamped, with two copper wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A 2 piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th E Company Reinforcements (1st Batt NZRB). Die stamped, with "NZ" and "R" to front of frame. Two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above Left: A 2 piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th F Company Reinforcements (2nd Batt NZRB). Die stamped, with two copper wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Above Right: A rare 2 piece, gilt brass Collar badge to the 9th F Company Reinforcements (2nd Batt NZRB). Die stamped, with two copper wire looped lugs to back. No maker mark. |
- Above: A 2 piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 9th F Company Reinforcements(2nd Batt NZRB). Die stamped, with "NZ" and "R" to front of frame. Two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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The 9th Reinforcements were the 3rd draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalion of NZRB, and contained the advance party for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of the NZRB. They left NZ on the 5th Feb 1916.
It contained the following.
- The 1st Battalion of the NZRB - 7 Officers & 295 Other Ranks
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 6 Officers & 302 Other Ranks
- The 3rd Battalion of the NZRB - 1 Officers & 50 Other Ranks
- The 4th Battalion of the NZRB - 1 Officers & 50 Other Ranks
Vessels used from Wellington: Maunganui, Tahiti and Warrimoo - Wellington to Suez - 29 to 32 days duration.
The main body of the 3rd and 4th Battalions of the NZRB, left NZ on the 6th-7th of February 1916 with the 3rd Maori Contingent.
It contained the following.
- The 3rd Battalion of the NZRB - 29 Officers & 984 Other Ranks
- The 4th Battalion of the NZRB - 27 Officers & 925 Other Ranks
Vessels used from Wellington: Ulimarua, Mokora and Navua - Wellington to Suez - 36 to 40 days duration.
Horse Transport "Waitemata" sailed on the 12th of Feb from New Zealand, and contained:
- The 3rd Battalion of the NZRB - 2 Officers & 33 Other Ranks
- The 4th Battalion of the NZRB - 2 Officers & 34 Other Ranks
Horse Transport "Waihora" sailed on the 22nd of Feb from New Zealand, and contained:
- The 3rd Battalion of the NZRB - 4 Other Ranks
- The 4th Battalion of the NZRB - 11 Other Ranks
Horse Transport "Apatitua" sailed on the 29th of Feb from New Zealand, and contained:
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 9 Officers
It contained the following.
- The 1st Battalion of the NZRB - 7 Officers & 295 Other Ranks
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 6 Officers & 302 Other Ranks
- The 3rd Battalion of the NZRB - 1 Officers & 50 Other Ranks
- The 4th Battalion of the NZRB - 1 Officers & 50 Other Ranks
Vessels used from Wellington: Maunganui, Tahiti and Warrimoo - Wellington to Suez - 29 to 32 days duration.
The main body of the 3rd and 4th Battalions of the NZRB, left NZ on the 6th-7th of February 1916 with the 3rd Maori Contingent.
It contained the following.
- The 3rd Battalion of the NZRB - 29 Officers & 984 Other Ranks
- The 4th Battalion of the NZRB - 27 Officers & 925 Other Ranks
Vessels used from Wellington: Ulimarua, Mokora and Navua - Wellington to Suez - 36 to 40 days duration.
Horse Transport "Waitemata" sailed on the 12th of Feb from New Zealand, and contained:
- The 3rd Battalion of the NZRB - 2 Officers & 33 Other Ranks
- The 4th Battalion of the NZRB - 2 Officers & 34 Other Ranks
Horse Transport "Waihora" sailed on the 22nd of Feb from New Zealand, and contained:
- The 3rd Battalion of the NZRB - 4 Other Ranks
- The 4th Battalion of the NZRB - 11 Other Ranks
Horse Transport "Apatitua" sailed on the 29th of Feb from New Zealand, and contained:
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 9 Officers
- Above: A 2 piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 10th E Company Reinforcements(1st Batt NZRB). Die stamped, with "NZ" and "R" to front of frame. Two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A 2 piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the 10th F Company Reinforcements(2nd Batt NZRB). Die stamped, with "NZ" in circles to front of frame. Two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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The 10th Reinforcements were the 4th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalion of NZRB. It contained NO reinforcements for the 3rd and 4th Battalions. They left NZ on the 11th of Mar 1916.
- Headquarters - 1 Other Ranks
- The 1st Battalion of the NZRB - 5 Officers & 197 Other Ranks
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 5 Officers & 190 Other Ranks
Vessels used from Wellington: Willochra and Tofua - Wellington to Suez - 35 days duration.
- Headquarters - 1 Other Ranks
- The 1st Battalion of the NZRB - 5 Officers & 197 Other Ranks
- The 2nd Battalion of the NZRB - 5 Officers & 190 Other Ranks
Vessels used from Wellington: Willochra and Tofua - Wellington to Suez - 35 days duration.
11th and 12th NZRB Drafts
- Above: A two piece, large frame type Cap badge to E Company, 11th Reinforcements (1st Batt NZRB). Extra gilt has been applied, and brooch fitting to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A two piece, large frame type Cap badge to F Company, 11th Reinforcements (2nd Batt NZRB). Two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A interesting frame type. Two piece, Cap badge with just a separate letter to upper center, to G Company, 11th Reinforcements (3rd Batt NZRB). The Frame continued, but not the concept of just one letter. Two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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The 11th Reinforcements left NZ on the 2nd of April 1916. They were the 5th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions, and the 2nd draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
From the 11th Reinforcements, New Zealand Army records combine the total men which make up the Reinforcement draft to the Rifle Brigade with the New Zealand Infantry as one figure. The all would receive further training at Sling or Brockton Camps in the UK, and then be "assigned" to their unit or Reserve and "marched out" to France.
- The 11th Draft consisted of 48 Officers and 1766 Other ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Maunganui and Tahiti - Wellington to Suez - 35 days duration.
From the 11th Reinforcements, New Zealand Army records combine the total men which make up the Reinforcement draft to the Rifle Brigade with the New Zealand Infantry as one figure. The all would receive further training at Sling or Brockton Camps in the UK, and then be "assigned" to their unit or Reserve and "marched out" to France.
- The 11th Draft consisted of 48 Officers and 1766 Other ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Maunganui and Tahiti - Wellington to Suez - 35 days duration.
- Above: Same frame type Cap badge as the above 11th "G" Company badge, but now with separate number and letter. Two piece, in gilt brass to E Company, 12th Reinforcements (1st Batt NZRB). Two hex brass lugs to back, no maker mark.
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- Above: A two piece Cap badge , in gilt brass to F Company, 12th Reinforcements (2nd Batt NZRB). Two hex brass lugs to back, no maker mark.
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- Above: A two piece Cap badge, in gilt brass to G Company, 12th Reinforcements (3rd Batt NZRB). Two hex brass lugs to back, no maker mark.
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The 12th Reinforcements left NZ on the 1st and 6th of May 1916. It was the 6th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 3rd draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 12th Draft consisted of 49 Officers and 1654 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Ulimaroa, Mokota and Navua - Wellington to Suez - 40 days duration.
- The 12th Draft consisted of 49 Officers and 1654 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Ulimaroa, Mokota and Navua - Wellington to Suez - 40 days duration.
13th and 14th NZRB Drafts
- Above: A two piece Cap badge, in gilt brass to G Company, 13th Reinforcements (3rd Batt NZRB). Two long flat hex brass lugs to back, no maker mark.
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- Above: A two piece, large frame type Cap badge to H Company, 13th Reinforcements (4th Batt NZRB). Two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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From the 13th Reinforcements onwards, there was no longer a need to ferry troops associated with the ANZAC and New Zealand Divisions via Suez, as both Divisions had moved to France.
It also meant that the Mounted Rifle Reinforcements and their associated units would now leave on separate vessels for Suez and the Middle East, often, via Australia to take advantage of combining with Australian reinforcement transports.
The 13th Reinforcements were at sea, when their route changed.
The 13th Reinforcements left NZ on the 27th of May 1916. It was the 7th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 4th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 13th Draft consisted of 45 Officers and 1339 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Willochra and Tofua via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 58 days duration.
It also meant that the Mounted Rifle Reinforcements and their associated units would now leave on separate vessels for Suez and the Middle East, often, via Australia to take advantage of combining with Australian reinforcement transports.
The 13th Reinforcements were at sea, when their route changed.
The 13th Reinforcements left NZ on the 27th of May 1916. It was the 7th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 4th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 13th Draft consisted of 45 Officers and 1339 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Willochra and Tofua via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 58 days duration.
- Above: A two piece, large frame type Cap badge to E Company, 14th Reinforcements (1st Batt NZRB). Two hex type brass lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A two piece Cap badge, in white metal to center, and gilt brass frame to F Company, 14th Reinforcements (2nd Batt NZRB). Two long copper looped lugs to back, no maker mark.
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- Above: A rare frame type, in two piece. Cap badge, in gilt brass to G Company, 14th Reinforcements (3rd Batt NZRB). Two copper looped lugs to back, no maker mark.
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The 14th Reinforcements left NZ on the 26th of June 1916. It was the 8th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 5th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 14th Draft consisted of 43 Officers and 1650 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Maunganui and Tahiti via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 59 days duration.
- Opposite: A two piece Cap badge , in 9ct Gold, with Stirling Silver frame to H Company, 14th Reinforcements (4th Batt NZRB). Brooched to back, with "9ct" stamped to back of "H". There is no mark to frame. Note one arm of the "V" in XIV has been snapped off.
- The 14th Draft consisted of 43 Officers and 1650 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Maunganui and Tahiti via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 59 days duration.
- Opposite: A two piece Cap badge , in 9ct Gold, with Stirling Silver frame to H Company, 14th Reinforcements (4th Batt NZRB). Brooched to back, with "9ct" stamped to back of "H". There is no mark to frame. Note one arm of the "V" in XIV has been snapped off.
- Above: A slightly faded image of No. 2 Platoon, E Company, 14th Reinforcements, possibly on the famous Rimutaka route march. Note the Officer to front (with pipe). A really mixed of cap badges, with some wearing generic NZRB Reio badges, a single chap wearing a NZRB Collar badge as a Cap, and others wearing Letter over number large framed type badges. No detail or writing to back, and no maker mark.
15th and 16th NZRB Drafts
- Above: A mid size Cap badge frame type, in two piece gilt brass, to F Company, 15th Reinforcements (2nd Batt, NZRB). Two copper looped wire lugs to back, with no maker mark.
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- Above: Large frame type Cap badge in 2 piece, gilt brass with RD or Registered Design number "RD812" to front. To G company, 15th Reinforcements (3rd Batt, NZRB). Brooched to back.
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- Above: A two piece Cap badge, in darkened brass to H Company, 15th Reinforcements (4th Batt Batt NZRB). Two flat hex type brass lugs to back, no maker mark.
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The 15th Reinforcements left NZ on the 26th & 29th of July 1916. It was the 9th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 6th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 15th Draft consisted of 47 Officers and 1613 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Waitemata and Ulimaroa via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 66 days duration.
- The 15th Draft consisted of 47 Officers and 1613 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Waitemata and Ulimaroa via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 66 days duration.
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- Opposite & Above: A rare frame type only worn by E and F 16th Reinforcements. One piece Cap and Collar badges in gilt brass to E Company, 16th Reinforcements (1st Batt, NZRB). All have hex type brass lugs to back, with no maker mark.
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- Above: A 2 piece, Stirling Silver Cap badge to F Company, 16th Reinforcements (2nd Batt, NZRB). Two brass hex lugs to back. Stamped "Stg. Silver" to frame.
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- Above: A 2 piece, gilt brass Cap badge to F Company, 16th Reinforcements (2nd Batt, NZRB). Two brass hex lugs to back, with no maker mark.
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- Above Left: A single piece, gilt brass Collar badge to F Company, 16th Reinforcements (2nd Batt, NZRB). Two brass hex lugs to back, with no maker mark. As you might realise, this is just a Cap badge center, which has had lugs attached.
- Above Right: Same again, but extra gilt brass Collar badge to F Company, 16th Reinforcements (2nd Batt, NZRB). It has been brooched to back. No maker mark and sadly missing its pin. |
- Above: A heavily gilt brass Cap badge, 2 piece, to G Company, 16th Reinforcements (3rd Batt, NZRB). Brooch fitting to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A gold and Stirling Silver Cap badge to H Company, 16th Reinforcements (4th Batt, NZRB). Brooch fitting to back. The center is marked "9ct" to back of H, while the frame is marked "STG. SILVER" to back of crown.
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- Above: A gold and Stirling Silver badge to H Company, 16th Reinforcements (4th Batt, NZRB). Brooch fitting to back. Not marked to back.
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The 16th Reinforcements left NZ on the 19th and 20th of August 1916. It was the 10th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 7th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 16th Draft consisted of 46 Officers and 1734 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Aparima, Mokota & Navua via Cape Good Hope - to Newport - 72 days duration.
- The 16th Draft consisted of 46 Officers and 1734 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Aparima, Mokota & Navua via Cape Good Hope - to Newport - 72 days duration.
17th and beyond NZRB Drafts
- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to E Company 17th Reinforcements (1st Batt, NZRB). Two hex type, brass lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the F Company, 17th Reinforcements (2nd Batt, NZRB). Two hex type, brass lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Above: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the F Company, 17th Reinforcements (2nd Batt, NZRB). Two hex type, brass lugs to back, but no maker mark. Note "NZ" is to center base.
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The 17 Reinforcements left NZ on the 23rd and 25th of September 1916. It was the 11th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 8th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 17th Draft consisted of 39 Officers and 1883 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Devon and Pakeha via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 58 days duration.
- Opposite: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the G Company, 17th Reinforcements (3rd Batt, NZRB). Two hex type, brass lugs to back, but no maker mark. Note "NZ" is to center base.
- The 17th Draft consisted of 39 Officers and 1883 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Devon and Pakeha via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 58 days duration.
- Opposite: A single piece, gilt brass Cap badge to the G Company, 17th Reinforcements (3rd Batt, NZRB). Two hex type, brass lugs to back, but no maker mark. Note "NZ" is to center base.
From the 18th Reinforcements many of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade start to wear some of the Infantry generic types, and also their own generic type as discussed below, so the letter/number on frame type Reinforcement badges become scarcer and less popular.
The 18th Reinforcements left NZ on the 11th and 16th of October 1916. It was the 12th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 9th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 18th Draft consisted of 40 Officers and 1820 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Willochra and Tofua via Cape Good Hope - to Devonport - 77 days duration.
The 18th Reinforcements left NZ on the 11th and 16th of October 1916. It was the 12th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 9th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 18th Draft consisted of 40 Officers and 1820 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Willochra and Tofua via Cape Good Hope - to Devonport - 77 days duration.
The 19th Reinforcements left NZ on the 15th of Nov 1916. It was the 13th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 10th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 19th Draft consisted of 19 Officers and 1687 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Maunganui and Tahiti via Cape Good Hope - to Devonport - 74 days duration.
- Opposite: A two piece, gilt brass Cap badge, to G Company, 19th Reinforcements (4th Batt, NZRB). Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
- Above: A two piece, wide frame gilt brass Cap badge to G Company, 20th Reinforcements (3rd Batt, NZRB). Two copper looped lugs to back, but no maker mark.
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- Opposite: A two piece, wide frame gilt brass Cap badge to H Company, 20th Reinforcements (4th Batt, NZRB). Brooch fitting to back, but no maker mark.
From the 20th to the 28th the New Zealand Rifle Brigade Reinforcements used G, H, and J Companies
The 20th Reinforcements was the 14th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 11th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 20th Reinforcements left NZ on the 7th of Dec 1916.
- The Draft consisted of 12 Officers and 665 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 20th Reinforcements left NZ on the 30th of Dec 1916 & 2nd of Jan 1917.
- The Drafts consisted of 27 Officers and 932 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Port Lyttelton, Athenic and Opawa via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 87 days duration.
From the 20th to the 28th the New Zealand Rifle Brigade Reinforcements used G, H, and J Companies
The 20th Reinforcements was the 14th draft for the 1st and 2nds Battalions and the 11th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 20th Reinforcements left NZ on the 7th of Dec 1916.
- The Draft consisted of 12 Officers and 665 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 20th Reinforcements left NZ on the 30th of Dec 1916 & 2nd of Jan 1917.
- The Drafts consisted of 27 Officers and 932 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Port Lyttelton, Athenic and Opawa via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 87 days duration.
- Opposite: A Gold with Stirling Silver frame, sweethearts badge to G Company, 21st Reinforcements. Brooch fitting to back.
The 21st Reinforcements left NZ on the 19th & 21st of Jan 1917. They were the 15th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 12th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 21st Draft consisted of 37 Officers and 1764 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Waitemata & Ulmaroa via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 68 days duration.
The 21st Reinforcements left NZ on the 19th & 21st of Jan 1917. They were the 15th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 12th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 21st Draft consisted of 37 Officers and 1764 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Waitemata & Ulmaroa via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 68 days duration.
The 22nd Reinforcements left NZ on the 13th & 16th of Feb 1917. They were the 16th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 13th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- They consisted of 40 Officers and 1692 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Aparima, Mokoia and Navua via Cape Good Hope - to Devonport - 72 days duration.
The 23rd Reinforcements were the 17th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 14th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 23rd Reinforcements left NZ on the 14th of Mar 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 18 Officers and 871 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 23rd Reinforcements left NZ on the 3rd of April 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 22 Officers and 944 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Ruapehu and Corinthic via Cape Horn & Cape Town - to London - 70 days duration.
- They consisted of 40 Officers and 1692 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Aparima, Mokoia and Navua via Cape Good Hope - to Devonport - 72 days duration.
The 23rd Reinforcements were the 17th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 14th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 23rd Reinforcements left NZ on the 14th of Mar 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 18 Officers and 871 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 23rd Reinforcements left NZ on the 3rd of April 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 22 Officers and 944 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Ruapehu and Corinthic via Cape Horn & Cape Town - to London - 70 days duration.
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- Opposite: A full length photo of 40548 Rifleman Ernest Alfred Grindrod. Ernest was a member of G Company 23rd Reinforcements, so training as part of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. He is wearing a generic pattern NZRB Cap badge, high crown, with a separate NZRB badge to center See bottom section on the Generic NZRB Badges. He also has two NZRB collars.
- Above: A later photo of 40548 Rifleman Ernest Alfred Grindrod. Possibly taken in the UK or France, where he joined B Company, 2nd Battalion of the NZRB. Note the Puggaree on his Lemon Squeezer, which will have a Khaki/Red/Khaki band (initially the NZRB wore a all Khaki band, but this later changed to the colours worn by all New Zealand Infantry). He also has a black square patch to his left sleeve, which shows he is a member of the 2nd Battalion, NZRB. |
- Above: A small Collar size badge worn or given by Ernest, in the shape of the 23rd Reinforcements. Brooched to back, it has the RD or Registered Design number "RD 902" to just above the lower banner.
- Opposite: A silk handkerchief given by Ernest to his Sister Mabel in New Zealand. Embroidered to one corner "Greetings from Salisbury-Plains". |
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RD or Registered Design number 902 is to Elden Kenneth Stuart Neill, 65 Hutt Road, Petone, N.Z. on the 12th of October 1916.
- Opposite: A French made silk card sent by Earnest to his Sister in a letter. It is not postally used, so I presume included in a letter or envelop.
It depicts a Butterfly with the flags of the allies. From left to right: France, Great Britain, Italy, Romania, Russia, Belgium, Great Britain and United States of America.
To back, Ernest has written:
"To Mabel,
With Best Love
From Ernie xxxx"
" France Sept 21st 1917".
Made by " Fabrication Francaise, A. O. Paris".
It depicts a Butterfly with the flags of the allies. From left to right: France, Great Britain, Italy, Romania, Russia, Belgium, Great Britain and United States of America.
To back, Ernest has written:
"To Mabel,
With Best Love
From Ernie xxxx"
" France Sept 21st 1917".
Made by " Fabrication Francaise, A. O. Paris".
- Opposite: A French made, silk card, with original envelope sent by Ernest to his Sister, Miss Mabel Grindrod of Eden Vale Road, Mt Eden, Auckland, NZ, on the 25th of Jan 1918.
"Dear Mabe,
Just a p. c. to thank you for your letters which you sent me each mail, you are getting quiet a letter writer. I'm sorry I haven't got the time to write you a separate letter, but hope you will accept a postcard instead. With best love from your loving Brother, Ernie. XXXXXX".
Card maker is "Suie Timee E. D. Paris".
The small card inside depicts a soldiers holding onto his girl.
Ernest went on to serve with with the NZRB in France from Sept 1917 to October 1918. He then transferred to the 1st Battalion of the Otago Infantry Regiment. Happily he survived the war and returned safely to New Zealand in May 1919.
"Dear Mabe,
Just a p. c. to thank you for your letters which you sent me each mail, you are getting quiet a letter writer. I'm sorry I haven't got the time to write you a separate letter, but hope you will accept a postcard instead. With best love from your loving Brother, Ernie. XXXXXX".
Card maker is "Suie Timee E. D. Paris".
The small card inside depicts a soldiers holding onto his girl.
Ernest went on to serve with with the NZRB in France from Sept 1917 to October 1918. He then transferred to the 1st Battalion of the Otago Infantry Regiment. Happily he survived the war and returned safely to New Zealand in May 1919.
The 24th Reinforcements were the 18th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 15th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 24th Reinforcements left NZ on the 6th of April 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 21 Officers and 897 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 24th Reinforcements left NZ on the 26th of April 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 19 Officers and 927 Other Ranks.
Vessel used from Wellington:
- Devon via Cape Horn & Cape Town - to Plymouth - 80 days duration
- Pakeha via Cape Good Hope - to Devonport - 80 days duration
The 25th Reinforcements left NZ on the 26th of April 1917. They were the 19th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 16th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 25th Draft consisted of 38 Officers and 1816 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Tofua & Turakina via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 85 days duration
The 26th Reinforcements were the 20th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 17th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 26th Reinforcements left NZ on the 9th of June 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 23 Officers and 1167 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 26th with part of the 27th Reinforcements left NZ on the 12th of June 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 35 Officers and 1728 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington:
- Willochra via Cape Good Hope - to Devonport - 66 days duration.
- Maunganui via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 66 days duration.
- Tahiti via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 66 days duration.
1st Draft of the 24th Reinforcements left NZ on the 6th of April 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 21 Officers and 897 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 24th Reinforcements left NZ on the 26th of April 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 19 Officers and 927 Other Ranks.
Vessel used from Wellington:
- Devon via Cape Horn & Cape Town - to Plymouth - 80 days duration
- Pakeha via Cape Good Hope - to Devonport - 80 days duration
The 25th Reinforcements left NZ on the 26th of April 1917. They were the 19th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 16th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- The 25th Draft consisted of 38 Officers and 1816 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Tofua & Turakina via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 85 days duration
The 26th Reinforcements were the 20th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 17th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 26th Reinforcements left NZ on the 9th of June 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 23 Officers and 1167 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 26th with part of the 27th Reinforcements left NZ on the 12th of June 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 35 Officers and 1728 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington:
- Willochra via Cape Good Hope - to Devonport - 66 days duration.
- Maunganui via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 66 days duration.
- Tahiti via Cape Good Hope - to Plymouth - 66 days duration.
- Above: A WW1 image of No. 27 Platoon, G Coy, (Reinforcements for the NZRB), 26th Reinforcements in training camp in NZ. Most are wearing a generic NZRB Reio Cap Badge (see below) on a slouch hat, with NZRB Collar badges. One or two are though wearing the Infantry 26th Reio Cap Badge and "Canoe" Collars. Note the NCO's wear a peaked cloth Cap instead of the Slouch hat.
The 27th were the 21st draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 18th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 27th Reinforcements - see above for details of the 26th Reinforcement Draft which was combined with part of the 27th).
2nd Draft of the 27th Reinforcements left NZ on the 16th of July 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 16 Officers and 724 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Athenic via Cape Good Hope - to Liverpool - 63 days duration.
The 28th were the 22nd draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 19th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 28th Reinforcements left NZ on the 14th of July 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 19 Officers and 893 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 28th Reinforcements left NZ on the 26th of July 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 19 Officers and 891 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Waitemata & Ulimaroa via Cape Good Hope - to Liverpool - 67 days duration.
The 29th NZRB reinforcements used only G & H Companies. They were the 23rd draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 20th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 29th Reinforcements left NZ on the 13th & 15th of Aug 1917.
- The combined Drafts consisted of 28 Officers and 1347 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 29th Reinforcements (and 30th Reinforcements) left NZ on the 13th of Oct 1917.
Vessels used from Wellington: Mokoia & Ruahine via Panama - to Glasgow - 50 days duration.
The 30th NZRB reinforcements used only H Company. It was the 24th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 21st draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
The 30th Reinforcements (and some of the 29th) left NZ on the 13th of Oct 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 39 Officers and 1568 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Corinthic & Arawa via Panama - to Liverpool - 57 days duration.
The 31st NZRB reinforcements used only G Company. It was the 25th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 22nd draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- 31st & 32nd Reinforcements left NZ on the 17th & 22nd of Nov 1917.
- The combined Draft consisted of 53 Officers and 2351 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Willochra, Managanui & Tahiti via Panama - to Liverpool - 49 days duration.
There were no further reinforcement drafts for the New Zealand Rifle Brigade after the 31st Draft.
The 27th were the 21st draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 18th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 27th Reinforcements - see above for details of the 26th Reinforcement Draft which was combined with part of the 27th).
2nd Draft of the 27th Reinforcements left NZ on the 16th of July 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 16 Officers and 724 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Athenic via Cape Good Hope - to Liverpool - 63 days duration.
The 28th were the 22nd draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 19th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 28th Reinforcements left NZ on the 14th of July 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 19 Officers and 893 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 28th Reinforcements left NZ on the 26th of July 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 19 Officers and 891 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Waitemata & Ulimaroa via Cape Good Hope - to Liverpool - 67 days duration.
The 29th NZRB reinforcements used only G & H Companies. They were the 23rd draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 20th draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
1st Draft of the 29th Reinforcements left NZ on the 13th & 15th of Aug 1917.
- The combined Drafts consisted of 28 Officers and 1347 Other Ranks.
2nd Draft of the 29th Reinforcements (and 30th Reinforcements) left NZ on the 13th of Oct 1917.
Vessels used from Wellington: Mokoia & Ruahine via Panama - to Glasgow - 50 days duration.
The 30th NZRB reinforcements used only H Company. It was the 24th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 21st draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
The 30th Reinforcements (and some of the 29th) left NZ on the 13th of Oct 1917.
- The Draft consisted of 39 Officers and 1568 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Corinthic & Arawa via Panama - to Liverpool - 57 days duration.
The 31st NZRB reinforcements used only G Company. It was the 25th draft for the 1st and 2nd Battalions and the 22nd draft for the 3rd and 4th Battalions of NZRB.
- 31st & 32nd Reinforcements left NZ on the 17th & 22nd of Nov 1917.
- The combined Draft consisted of 53 Officers and 2351 Other Ranks.
Vessels used from Wellington: Willochra, Managanui & Tahiti via Panama - to Liverpool - 49 days duration.
There were no further reinforcement drafts for the New Zealand Rifle Brigade after the 31st Draft.
Generic NZRB Reinforcement Badges
As well as the above badges, numbered and lettered for each draft, the NZRB wore their own generic cap badge and collar, and it was down to taste or preference as to which one was worn.
- Above: A two piece, standard Cap badge, commonly encountered for the NZRB Reinforcements. Note the motto has been left on the Cap badge size center.
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- Above: Same frame type again, this time in added gilt to the center. Note the Cap badge to center does NOT have the Motto to bottom. Two hex type lugs to back.
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- Above: Same frame again, this time in a darkened, black finish overall, which was the colour used on all NZRB insignia. They earned the nicknamed the "Black Button Bastards" by the Germans on the Western Front.
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- Above: A darkened brass, two piece NZRB Reinforcement Cap Badge, made from a frame worn from the 12th/13th Reinforcements onwards. The badge to center is about 2/3rds normal size. Wire copper loops to back.
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- Above: The frame was worn from around the 16th/17th Reinforcement drafts, the center has a NZRB badge with motto and is in gilt brass finish. Two wire looped lugs to back.
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- Above:Same frame again, but with added gilt finish. Note the Cap badge size badge to center does not have the motto. Two wire looped lugs to back.
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- Above: A slight variation on the above frame type, with the fern wreath tips finishing mid-crown at top of frame.
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- Above: Another frame type, but note the mid size NZRB cap badge to center.
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- Above: Scarce frame type with NZRB center in gilt brass.
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- Above: A scarce NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcement Cap badge on a "Expedit. Forces" frame, with Kiwi at base. The separate NZRB badge is half size to front, and the whole brass badge has been darkened. Two hex type brass flat lugs to back. No maker mark.
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- Above: A variation to the NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcement Cap badge. This time on a "Expeditionary Forces" frame more associated with the 34th Reinforcements. Note the NZRB faces also the other way (so a collar badge). This is a full size NZRB badge to center. Two rounded copper looped lugs to back. No maker mark but the frame has the characteristics of being Stokes & Sons.
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- Opposite left: A scarce NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcement Cap badge on a "Expedit. Forces" frame, with Kiwi at base. The separate NZRB badge is half size to front, and the whole brass badge has been darkened. Two hex type brass flat lugs to back. No maker mark.
- Opposite Middle & Right: Two examples of the rather scarce collars worn by the NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcements. They don't appear often, so may not have been popular at the time or widely worn. Hex or wire lugs to back.
- Opposite Middle & Right: Two examples of the rather scarce collars worn by the NZ Rifle Brigade Reinforcements. They don't appear often, so may not have been popular at the time or widely worn. Hex or wire lugs to back.
- Opposite Left: A multi piece gilt brass, enamel, mother of pearl and Stirling Silver sweethearts badge to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Brooch fitted to back of brass backing, with a mark which says "Real Silver Rim".
- Opposite Right: A Stirling Silver (not marked) Cap badge size sweethearts badge to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Brooch fitting to back.
- Opposite Right: A Stirling Silver (not marked) Cap badge size sweethearts badge to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. Brooch fitting to back.