Ernest A. Taffs

Rifleman, New Zealand Rifle Brigade

Ernest A. Taffs was a student at Alleyn’s until 1899 and moved to New Zealand shortly after leaving school. When the First World War broke out in August 1914, he was still living abroad and decided to join the war effort as part of the ANZAC forces. After being found fit for service, he was attached to the New Zealand Rifle Brigade and was sent for service overseas on the Western Front. In 1918, he was serving in France during the 100 Days Offensive and holding a position in the line near Rouen, when the German Army released a gas attack which left him severely wounded. After the attack, Ernest was transferred from the front to hospital but later died of his injuries on November 4^th. He is buried at St. Sever Cemetery Extension, Rouen.