December 31, 2021
Robert ‘Bom’ Gillies to become a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit
Affectionately known as Bom, Robert Gillies is the last remaining member of the 28th Māori Battalion.
He enlisted in 1943 at the age of 17 (after giving a false birthdate) and served in Italy, surviving the gruelling Battle of Monte Cassino. He served in B Company during World War 2 from 1942 to 1945, across Africa, Europe and the Middle East, and primarily in Italy.
Bom Gillies is being recognised for his services to Maori and war commemoration.
For more than 20 years, he has represented the men and service of the Battalion at national and international events.
As well as attending the annual dawn and civic Anzac ceremonies, he has also attended other occasions including Ngarimu Scholarship presentations in Wellington and laying the wreath at the ceremony in Italy in 2019 to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the Battles of Cassino.
In 2019 the Italian Republic recognised Robert Gillies as a Knight of the Order of Merit
Former Māori Rugby Coach, Matt Te Pou described the koroua as a humble man and despite his age Bom has been a Trustee of the 28th Māori Battalion B Company History Trust since 2013. He’s an active member of the Te Arawa Returned Services Association and continues to play an active role with his Ngāti Whakaue Iwi where he continues to help out on the marae by maintaining the war memorial, and participating in iwi affairs.
Robert Bom Gillies is a member of Waikite Rugby Club and was instrumental early on in establishing the current clubrooms.
Ake ake Kia kaha e !