GOOD WISHES

Auckland Star, Volume LXXVI, Issue 95, 23 April 1945, Page 7

GOOD WISHES

OFFICIAL GREETINGS RETURNING MEN WELCOMED Welcoming the returning servicemen and women on behalf of the Government, the Minister of Education, Mr. Mason, stated that they would find everywhere rehabilitation officers ready to help them. "I don't want you to think that we have been able to do. everything we would like to do with regard to rehabilitation," he said, pointing out that it was impossible to maintain so large a body of men overseas without it affecting the internal workings of the country. "However," he continued; "we are doing our best." After referring to the pride the country felt in the activities of the division overseas, Mr. Mason added that if the returning men wanted to show any appreciation of what had been done in the way of rehabilitation they could best do this by making good use of the rehabilitation offices. "What you have achieved overseas fills us with great pride," said Mr. J. H. Frater, chairman of the Auckland Harbour Board, when greeting the men on behalf of the port authorities. "What you have done has enabled this port to remain open," he added. "I.don't like this wretched thing," said the Mayor, Mr. Allum, referring to the speech-making. "I would much rather just look at you." However, he said he was glad to offer to them the thanks and cordial greetings of the people of Auckland. "There is a darned fine welcome waiting for you on the wharf," he concluded. Ready to Help Congratulating troops on their return, Mr. A. P. Postlewaite, president of the Auckland Returned Services' Association, stated that his organisation was concerned with their welfare on their resumption of civilian life, and issued a cordial invitation for them to contact the R.S.A. should they have any difficulties in connection with pensions or other rehabilitation problems. Mr. Postlewaite invited the returning troops to attend the 11 o'clock Anzac Day ceremony, "when you will have opportunity to pay tribute to your comrades who have journeyed towards the west." He also thanked them for the £25 they have contributed towards the Poppy Day ap"Your comrades here have followed your career with great interest," commented Brigadier A. B. Williams, D.5.0., R.N.Z.A., officer commanding the Northern Military District, who extended a welcome and good wishes on behalf of the services.