BAIN, Ronald Duncan

Biography:

Born in Christchurch, 6 February 1888. His mother Mrs Ellen Bain lived in Sumner. He may have been in Avondale briefly before enlisting, having only just bought a farm at Whangaruru; his name, as a farmer in Avondale, appeared on the newspaper lists 20 June 1916.

"PRIVATE RONALD BAIN. Private Ronald Bain, who is reported killed in action on June 7. went away with the Eighteenth Reinforcements. Just before enlistment he purchased a farm in the North in the Whangaruru district. He had intended to develop the property, but the call of the Empire proved too strong, and he went into the firing line. Private Bain was one of five sons of the late John Bain, of Christchurch. Four of the sons donned the uniform. The eldest, John, is serving in an Australian military dental hospital; Dr Leonard Bain has joined the British medical service; while Norman the youngest son is now in camp. Mr. Wm. Bain, of Whangarei, also offered his services, but failed to pass the necessary medical test. Mrs. Bain, the mother of the fallen soldier, is living at Sumner, a suburb of Christchurch. Mr. Bain, sen. died some seven years ago." (Auckland Star 25 June 1917 p. 7)

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