OUR ARMY The Correct Designation?

Auckland Star, Volume LXXI, Issue 17, 20 January 1940, Page 3 (Supplement)

OUR ARMY The Correct Designation?

Far bo it from mc to dogmatise in this matter, but I suggest as a solution of the problem exercising the minds of thousands that we should eall each batch of our new army "contingent." The word "echelon," to mc is entirely out of place. A French word meaning a step, stepping stone or degree, it cannot correctly be used except as in an order to troops: Troops will form en echelon—a familiar command. The word "reinforcement" cannot be used either; certainly not until the division is completely established, which it will not be until the third "contingent," at the earliest, joins the two preceding it. After that, I think, the word "reinforcement" would be permissible, though, perhaps, not necessary. The term "main body" for the first, group can hardly be used in this connection. as it was in the case of the X.Z.E.F. of 1011-18; even if we remember here that what was the "first reinforcement" l>ecanie known as the "second," thus putting the lot out of step. Since tlie new Army is to he known as "The Second New Zealand Division" I think each group forming it should bo known as "contingent," a word the simple meaning of which, used in this connection, is "a share" or "proportion." Each batch is a share or proportion of the completed force, and "contingent" is easier to say and write than "reinforcement/' or "echelon." TROOPER.