Donald Forrester Brown

Donald Forrester Brown: A New Zealand Hero

Imagine a young farmer from the rugged landscapes of Dunedin, New Zealand, stepping forward to defend his country during World War I. Donald Forrester Brown was just that—a man who left behind the fields and farms for the grim realities of trench warfare. Born in 1890, he grew up with the spirit of adventure and duty, qualities that would define his life and death on the Western Front.

Educated and Enlisted

Before the war, Brown was educated at South School and Waitaki Boys’ High School in Oamaru. His path to service began when he purchased a farm, a common practice among young men of his generation who sought independence and security. But as the world around him changed, so did his plans.

Training and Deployment

Brown received military training at Trentham Military Camp before embarking for Egypt with the Ninth Reinforcements in January 1916. From there, he was posted to France where his battalion faced the harsh realities of trench warfare.

The Battle of Flers–Courcelette

During the Battle of Flers–Courcelette on September 25, 1916, Brown’s actions were nothing short of heroic. As the covering barrage lifted, New Zealanders captured Switch Trench by 7:00 am. However, tanks that were supposed to assist in the attack never appeared. In this gap, Brown improved defenses and dug new trenches for shelter.

His battalion was relieved on September 29, but not before Brown had already distinguished himself. He attacked a machine gun post singlehandedly with his pistol, killed the gun crew, and captured the weapon. Later, while sniping at retreating enemies, he was shot in the head by a sniper and killed instantly.

Awarded Posthumously

Despite his bravery, senior leadership of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) were slow to recognize Brown’s gallantry. It took lobbying from his battalion officers for him to be awarded the Victoria Cross on June 15, 1917—posthumously.

A Lasting Legacy

Brown’s VC was awarded to his father in 1917 after an action on the Western Front. The medal has since been loaned for display at several locations, including a memorial tablet in Oamaru and a plaque in Dunedin. These displays serve as a reminder of Brown’s sacrifice and the countless others who fought during that tumultuous time.

Imagine if you could walk through those fields where Brown once farmed, or stand on the very ground he fought upon. The echoes of his bravery still resonate, a testament to the courage and selflessness of young men like Donald Forrester Brown.

Donald Forrester Brown’s story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit in its most noble form. His actions on the Western Front continue to inspire us, showing that even in the darkest of times, there are those who step forward with courage and determination.