Laurance Russell was the youngest son of Herbert H. Russell and Rachel Russell, of New Zealand and Torquay.

Born in England but emmigrated to New Zealand as a child (Martyn 1998).

Brother of Francis Gerald Russell, who died on 28 January 1917 while flying with 21 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps (Martyn 1998).

"Left us during the third term of 1911, immediately sailing for England with his parents, where he was to complete his education and study engineering. He remained at Wellington College (Berkshire) until the spring of 1915, winning considerable distinction as a member of the School Shooting Eight. Enlisting in the R.F.C. as soon as possible, he made unusually rapid progress, and was shortly in possession of the coveted 'wings.' On his transfer to France, he was appointed to No. 7 Squadron, 15th Wing, R.F.C., quartered on the Somme front, close to Albert. There he made daily flights over the German lines, directing artillery fire by wireless. In but twenty days his brilliant career as an airman was cut short, a shell exploding at his feet, killing his observer and inflicting terrible injuries to both his legs. He landed unconscious, and the necessary operations were undertaken at once. The shock, unfortunately, proved too great and he succumbed on September 2nd, 1916, in a field hospital." (In Memoriam, 1914-1918 [Wanganui Collegiate School]) AWMM