George Spence was born in Fielding, going on to become a minister at the Knox Presbyterian Church in Parnell when he enlisted in the army in 1940. He went overseas with the first body of New Zealand troops, and served as a Chaplain from 1940 to 1945.

In action, he displayed remarkable faith and courage as he contended with the most difficult of conditions, exhaustion and danger.

He was known to constantly visit soldiers wherever they were fighting, caring for those who were wounded, and helping to bury the dead. He provided inspiration and was upheld as an example to the soldiers, who were encouraged and helped through his care and concern.

In his fifth year of service, in April 1944, Spence was appointed Senior Chaplain in Italy, due to his ‘exceptional ability’ in administration. From there he managed all the chaplains from different denominations to keep all their operations running smoothly. He even visited soldiers at many outposts during this time – his conscientious duty earning appreciation and respect.

Reverend Spence was awarded the OBE for his consistently good service over this period of five and a half years – he was also awarded the Military Cross for his bravery and devotion to duty throughout the military campaign in Greece, Crete, Libya and Egypt. We remember him.

Story and photo supplied with thanks to Regimental Historian Angus Kirk, 16 Field Regt RNZA QAMR RNZAC.