Alfred William Robin of Dunedin, became involved in the New Zealand volunteer movement while still at the High School of Otago when he joined the schools Artillery Cadet Corps. From 1891 to 1898 he commanded the Otago Hussars, regarded as the most efficient volunteer corps with Robin as the 'smartest Commanding Officer in the Colony'. He was promoted as Major in 1898 and the following year was given command of the First Contingent New Zealand Mounted Rifles which left New Zealand in October 1899.

Major Robin was mentioned in dispatches on three occasions and became a local celebrity. His portrait featured in a range of commemorative items such as this badge.He was appointed lieutenant colonel, New Zealand Militia in June 1900. Following his return to New Zealand Lieut. Colonel Robin continued his involvement with the Volunteer Forces (Otago), and in WW1 he was appointed commandant to the New Zealand military forces in New Zealand, organising training and reinforcements for the NZEF. He was promoted to brigadier general in June 1915.

See Dictionary of New Zealand Biography