The Royal New Zealand Navy has announced with sadness the passing of Nancy 'Pat' Clothier, who died at the age of 106.
Born in Christchurch on 11 April 1920, Nancy holds a significant place in New Zealand's naval history. On her 22nd birthday in 1942, the War Cabinet approved the establishment of the Women's Royal New Zealand Naval Service, the WRNZNS. Nancy was among the very first women to enlist, entering service as a probationary Wren at HMNZS Philomel on 15 July 1942 and receiving service number 11.
Her naval career spanned two distinct roles. She began as a shorthand typist, posted to the Naval Office in Wellington, before transferring to the naval radio station in Waiouru, where she served as a telegraphist. Throughout her service she was confirmed as an Able Wren and subsequently promoted to Petty Officer Wren.
When the Second World War ended, Nancy did not immediately leave uniform. She continued to serve through the demobilising of the RNZN in the immediate postwar period, until her engagement concluded on 15 April 1946.
She is remembered as one of the first women to join the WRNZNS and one of the longest-serving Wrens of the Second World War.
