Randolph Ridling

Ridling, for sentimental reasons, sought an exemption from Queen Elizabeth II to retain his medal, which was granted.

Discharged in June he underwent a convalescence period in Brighton before proceeding to the NZRB troop depot at Sling Camp in Bulford.

Promoted to lieutenant in March, he was tasked with teaching bombing techniques to reinforcement troops destined for service on the Western Front.

[2][5] As the NZEF demobilised after the end of the war, Ridling, promoted to temporary captain on 10 March 1919, was appointed an education officer.

[2] In late March, his name was published as being brought to the attention of the Secretary of State for services in connection with the war.

[2] For his actions of 19 April 1918, the commander of NZEF forces in England, Brigadier General George Richardson, had recommended Ridling for the Albert Medal for Lifesaving (AM).

The citation read: The King has been pleased to award the Albert Medal to Lieutenant Randolph Gordon Ridling, New Zealand Rifle Brigade, in recognition of his gallantry in saving life in April of last year.

At Brocton Camp, Stafford, on the 19th April, 1918, a recruit who was under instruction in bombing dropped a live Mills' grenade in the throwing bay after pulling out the pin.

Lacking the presence of mind to attempt to escape, he kicked the bomb towards the entrance and retreated to the inner end of the bay.

Seizing him in his arms, he started to carry him out, but the bomb exploded before he could get clear of the bay, and he was wounded severely in the groin.

[1][2] In 1948, Ridling was a member of a committee formed to report to the New Zealand government on the recruitment, education and training of teachers, which completed its work in 1951.

During this time he led the New Zealand delegation to the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

[7][12] However, Ridling sought an exemption from Queen Elizabeth II, citing his high sentimental attachment to the award.