Herbert Stanley Sing

Herbert Stanley Sing (9 May 1892 – 3 July 1916) also known as Private Herbert Singe was a New Zealand World War I soldier of Irish and Chinese descent.

Sing was born in Palmerston North on 9 May 1892 to mother Mrs Frances Margaret Sing (Nee Smith) (3 March 1868 - 7 June 1923) of Irish descent and William Ping Sing (1849 -14 October 1929), who was born in China and later immigrated to New Zealand.

Herbert was one of four brothers, Albert Victor Sing, Robert Francis Sing and Arthur Percy Sing, who all served New Zealand in WW1. Prior to enlisting, he was a well-known swimmer and completed the cross-harbour swim from Northcote to Shelly Beach.

Sing was described to have come from a 'fighting family' with his great- grandfather Stephen Neary of the 57th Regiment, who fought in the Battle of Waterloo. And his maternal grandfather who fought in the Crimean War and Indian Mutiny. It is also noted that other relatives took part in the New Zealand Wars.

Sing enlisted in the New Zealand Army on 4 September 1914 at age 22. He also served throughout the Gallipoli campaign.

Death Sing was killed in action on the 3 July 1916 at the Battle of the Somme, Northern France. His death occurred during what was described as, the worst bombardment experienced in the line since New Zealand troops arrived.

Sing's brother Private Albert Sing wrote of his death: Here shows H.S.Sing's name displayed on the Auckland Roll of Honour at Auckland War Memorial Museum's World War One Hall of Memories. Private Enwright, Sing's battalion mate wrote to Sing's mother accounting the circumstances of his death:Sing was noted to be extremely popular among his peers due to his 'soldierly qualities'. After his death he won a Distinguished Conduct Medal for exceptional bravery. Sing was buried alongside a friend who perished in the same attack. He was buried in the Cite Bonjean Military Cemetery in Armentières, France, with a burial service conducted by Catholic Chaplain-Captain Richards.