“THE MILITARY FUNERAL
OF TROOPER WILLIAM BROWN
Once again Death’s “dark cloud” was cast across Te Aroha, when the sad news of the death of Trooper William Brown came to hand on Wednesday last. Deceased, who was only 26 years of age and who leaves a young wife and child to mourn their loss, enlisted and went into camp about two months ago. Shortly after he was committed to the Trentham Military Hospital where he died of pneumonia and meningitis on Tuesday last. The funeral, which left St. Joseph’s Church on Friday, was one of the largest and most impressive ever witnessed in this district. The Defence units were well represented —Territorials, Senior Cadets, Scouts, members of the National Reserve and Rifle Club being in attendance. The Municipal Brass Band also paraded and rendered the Dead March in “ Saul.” The burial service was read by the Rev. Father McGuinness, who afterwards made many kind remarks and spoke highly of the sacrifices made by deceased, who, he said was entitled to just the same honors as one who had been to the front and done his duty. The Senior Cadets’ firing party then fired the salute, and the Last Post was sounded by Buglar Dickson.” [Te Aroha News, Volume XXXIV, Issue 5402, 28 August 1916, Page 2]