MINI BIO

Known as “Harry”, Henry worked as a grocer's assistant after completing school.  He served with the Territorial Force, joining at the age of 16.
Enlisting in the NZEF May 15, he was posted to 2nd Battalion of the NZ Rifle Brigade.
Harry served on  the Western Front from 1916. He was wounded during the Somme Offensive.
By September 1918, Laurent had advanced in rank to sergeant. During the Hundred Days Offensive, for his bravery and leadership, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Laurent later attended an officer training school and was commissioned in February 1919. Within a few months, his service in the NZEF ceased and he returned to New Zealand.
Laurent also served with the New Zealand Military Forces during the Second World War, commanding a battalion in the Home Guard. 
He retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.  He was the last surviving NZ VC recipient of the First World War. .

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LONDON GAZETTE

No. 31012

19 November 1918

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For most conspicuous bravery, skill, and enterprise when during an attack he was detailed to exploit an initial success and keep in touch with the enemy. With a party of twelve he located the enemy support line very strongly held, at once charged the position, followed by his men, and completely disorganised the enemy by his sudden onslaught. In the subsequent hand-to-hand fighting which ensued he showed great resourcefulness in controlling and encouraging his men, and thirty of the enemy having been killed, the remainder surrendered, a total of one officer and 111 other ranks in all. The success of this daring venture, which caused his party four casualties only, was due to his gallantry and enterprise