After a brief time in Egypt William Holt boarded the 'Ivernia' from Alexandria to Southampton, England, disembarking on 7 August. Training at Sling Camp followed, during which time he was made acting Corporal. (Church, p.146)

"Holt left for France on 28 August and three weeks later joined the 2 Battalion, Otago Regiment, 14 Company near Flers on the Somme." (Church, p.146)

By mid November Holt was suffering from enteritis and required hospitalisation. He was admitted to No.1 NZGH, Brockenhurst on 3 December. His army records state that when he was assessed as fit, in Late January, he was employed at the hospital for the rest of his service. During this period he was often a patient himself, suffering from influenza and pleurisy. (Church, p.146) AWMM