Three brothers from Fiji, William Wilson Andrews, Phillip Tui Andrews, and Joe Andrews, were recruited by the New Zealand Pioneer Maori Battalion for World War I while they were between the ages of 18 and 30. Hailing from Lovonisikeci Estate in Kasavu, Cakaudrove, they left behind their copra farms and military training at Levuka Public School for a journey to a foreign battlefield. According to 87-year-old Maryann Whippy, daughter of Phillip Tui Andrews, the brothers left without saying goodbye to their family, heading directly from training to New Zealand and then to the war in France.
During their deployment, William and Phillip faced dire circumstances. While traveling by train in France, they were ambushed by German forces, resulting in William being shot. Maryann recounted that Phillip tried to protect William, but tragically, William died in his brother’s arms. This loss haunted Phillip for the rest of his life, making him vow that his children would not join the military, having witnessed the horrors of war firsthand.
Phillip, who served three years with the NZ Maori Battalion, shared harrowing memories of his time in battle with his family. He recounted experiences of starvation, lack of water, and the bond formed with fellow soldiers, often sharing minimal food among them. He also maintained his faith, considering his Bible more powerful than any weapon.
Maryann revealed that Phillip was friends with Ratu Sukuna, who looked out for Fijian soldiers during the war, ensuring they received food and support.
After the war, Phillip returned to New Zealand before traveling to Samoa, where he married and settled for over ten years before eventually returning to Fiji. His traumatic experiences from World War I persisted as he was later called upon by the Samoan government for assistance during World War II.
Recently, after 110 years, the family finally visited William’s grave at the Mazargues War Cemetery in France. Great-granddaughter Christine Whippy-Dunn described the visit as emotional and fulfilling, reflecting the family’s long remembrance of their ancestor’s sacrifice.
This story highlights the personal sacrifices and enduring impact of war on families, particularly in the context of the Andrews brothers’ journey from Fiji to the battlefields of World War I.