New Plymouth Boys’ High School (NPBHS) recently received a significant historical artifact, the British War Medal 1914-1918, awarded posthumously to Corporal Vincent John Baird Hall, a respected teacher and Gallipoli soldier. This medal, missing for over a century, was serendipitously discovered on an online auction by Simon Strombom of the New Zealand Remembrance Army and has now found a permanent home at the school where Hall once taught.
The presentation ceremony, attended by students, faculty, alumni, and community members, underscored the enduring legacy of Hall, who served in the Wellington Infantry Regiment, New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF), during World War I. Before his military service, Hall was known for his dedication to education and his role as a shooting team coach. Even after being severely wounded at Gallipoli, Hall’s selfless demeanor and commitment to others left a lasting impression on those around him.
Tragically, Hall succumbed to his injuries in June 1915, and was laid to rest in Alexandria (Chatby) Military and War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt. The event at NPBHS not only honored Hall’s military sacrifice but also celebrated his contributions as a mentor and leader within the school community. Sam Moore, Headmaster of NPBHS, emphasized that the medal symbolizes the values of courage, commitment, and community that Hall instilled in his students, values that continue to shape the school’s ethos.
The discovery of the medal last year by Simon on TradeMe was described as a poignant moment, reclaiming a piece of the school’s history and connecting present students to the sacrifices of the past. The medal, now proudly displayed alongside a portrait of Corporal Hall and narratives of his life and service, serves as an educational tool and a focal point for reflection within the school.
Headmaster Moore highlighted the contemporary relevance of Hall’s story, noting how it teaches students about resilience and the profound impact individuals can have on their communities. The assembly culminated in a moment of silence for all fallen soldiers, followed by an invitation for the community to view the medal display, generously presented by the Remembrance Army.
In closing, Simon expressed hope that the story of Corporal Hall and the returned medal will inspire future generations of students and serve as a cornerstone of the school’s rich heritage. The event served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who came before, urging present and future students to embody the same values of honor, service, and selflessness that Hall exemplified.
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