“MAORI BATTALION. – FIFTH REINFORCEMENTS – Reinforcements for the Maori Battalion are being called up and notices have been sent to the following to parade at 7.30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 8, at the Drill Hall, Rutland Street, to proceed to Papakura to join the 5th Reinforcements:—
… Auckland and suburbs: Robert Cowell, William Cowell, Waiuku: …” [Auckland Star, Volume LXXI, Issue 306, 26 December 1940, Page 8]“

KILLED IN ACTION – YOUTHFUL MAORI SOLDIERS Previously reported as wounded Mr Tom Nepia, of Waipipi. was recently notified that his son Muka Nepia had died of wounds. Muka was only eighteen years of age when he enlisted and went overseas with the Second Echelon. He saw fighting in Crete and Libya.
A companion of Muka Nepia. Billy Cowell, has also made the supreme sacrifice. He was even younger than his mate and was only 18 years of age when he was reported killed. A son of Mr W. Cowell, well known in the Waiuku district, he went overseas with his brother, Bobby, who was invalided home some time ago.” [Franklin Times, Volume XXXI, Issue 88, 3 August 1942, Page 2]