He wanted to join as Chaplain earlier in the Second World War, but because of his position as Dean of Christchurch Cathedral he wasn’t freed to enlist until 1944. By this time, he was older than the normal age for service, but because of his fitness, was released to join an infantry unit which took part in the fierce fighting through Italy.

He accompanied his Battalion from the beginning of the Allied campaign, northwards from the River Senios. This included an extremely difficult struggle through the countryside, fording icy rivers where bridges had been destroyed by the retreating Germans, and in the fierce fighting through towns and villages.

When they reached the River Gaiana, the men in the forward squadrons had suffered many casualties and no evacuation had been possible. It was noted how Padre Warren went forward to the frontline, while the battle was raging about him, and organised an immediate evacuation of the wounded.

On this occasion, and many others, his cheerful attitude and lack of concern for his own safety boosted the morale of the battle-weary troops. He took initiative and acted promptly, saving the lives of numerous wounded men. He stayed calm under fire, and amazed the troops and their officers by his self-denying actions. He was later seriously wounded at Padua, but survived to return home to Christchurch.

Having been born in Wellington, and educated in Marton, he returned to serve as a Vicar in Ross, and then Waimate, and then as the Bishop in Christchurch. Rev Alwyn Warren was awarded the Military Cross for a continuously fine example of cheerfulness under fire and devotion to duty. This included recognition of his outstanding courage and leadership in organising the evacuation of the wounded at the Gaiana River. We remember him.

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