Frank Rusden, son of Mrs Isabella Rusden of Wanganui, was aged between 44-48 years old at the time of his enlistment. He was a carter, employed by JJ Craig of Auckland. Frank embarked with the 15th Reinforcements A Company, on 26th July 1916. Two weeks after being marched into Sling Camp, Frank was marched out again to proceed overseas. He joined the 1st Battalion Auckland Regiment in the field in November 1916, but in early February 1917 was evacuated sick, suffering from severe pleurisy. After 2 ½ months at Walton-on-Thames Hospital Private Rusden was classified unfit for active service and left the UK on the ss Ionic in July that year.

Following his return to New Zealand Frank was discharged as “No longer physically fit for War Service on account of pre-enlistment disability, aggravated by Active Service”. He died in Auckland on 22nd April 1928, cause of death valvular disease (aortic) of the heart, and was buried at Waikumete Soldiers’ Anglican Cemetery.