Between the ages of 18 and 30, the Andrews brothers were recruited by the New Zealand Pioneer Maori Battalion for World War I. Originating from the copra farms of Lovonisikeci Estate in Cakaudrove, they went from military trainees at Levuka Public School to soldiers in a distant war. Unaware of the grave consequences ahead, William Wilson Andrews (in his late 20s), Phillip Tui Andrews (18), and Joe Andrews (in his early 30s) traveled to New Zealand, trained, and subsequently journeyed to France.
Maryann Whippy (nee Andrews), the 87-year-old daughter of Phillip Tui Andrews, recounted that the brothers, along with other locals, were part of a military preparation program. “They didn’t even return home to say their goodbyes,” she shared. From Levuka, they headed straight to New Zealand and then off to combat without a farewell to their grandparents, Walter and Florence Andrews.
During their travels, Joe decided to leave the journey and remain in the USA to avoid fighting, and his family remains there to this day. Phillip and William, however, continued to France, unaware that this would be their last time together. Tragically, while traveling on a train in France, a German attack led to William being shot. Maryann detailed how Phillip, in a desperate attempt to protect his brother, jumped onto the railway only to find William lifeless in his arms after the chaos subsided. This devastating moment haunted Phillip, who regretted participating in the war and vowed to deter his children from military service for their safety.
Phillip, who served three years with the NZ Maori Battalion, returned to Kasavu and later recounted harrowing experiences of the battlefield to his children. Maryann remembered her father describing how soldiers would go for days without food or water, sharing scant rations amongst many. He relied on his Bible for solace, believing it more powerful than any weapon.
Maryann also noted that Phillip had a friendship with Ratu Sukuna during the war, who looked out for the Fijian soldiers. After returning to New Zealand post-war, Phillip worked before marrying and settling in Samoa for over a decade.
His experiences during WWI followed him; he was later asked to assist the Samoan government when World War II broke out. Despite the traumatic memories, he took measures to keep his family safe during the conflict in Samoa.
In August of this year, a great-granddaughter, Christine Whippy-Dunn, honored her ancestor’s memory by visiting William’s grave at the Mazargues War Cemetery in France, a long-awaited tribute after over a century. She described the visit as emotional and fulfilling.
The article emphasizes the personal stories and sacrifices made by the Andrews brothers and their family, illustrating the impact of war across generations.