N.Z. SQUADRON IN MALAYA

Press, Volume XCII, Issue 27752, 1 September 1955, Page 9

N.Z. SQUADRON IN MALAYA

MINISTER ADDRESSES MEN “ TWO JOBS TO DO WHILE OVERSEAS (New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, August 31. New Zealand’s Special Air Service Squadron had two jobs to do in Malaya—to operate against the Communist terrorists and to establish diplomatic relations, members of the squadron were told by the Minister of Defence (Mr T. L. Macdonald) at Waiouru today. New Zealanders had always been good at the art of getting on with other people and he knew that the squadron would keep up their reputation in this sphere, said Mr Macdonald. “Your methods of training differ from the old ones and although they are strenuous, you appear to be thriving on them,” he said. “Your training teaches you quickness and control and these are very necessary in the work you are going to do. I saw the S A.S. regiment at Kuala Lumpur last March. From their demonstrations, I found that they were very tough and very fit. I was very glad they were on my side, not against,” Mr Macdonald said. Although the squadron’s training was tougher than usual, it brought out initiative. The squadron was going to face a challenge, said the Minister, and he was confident it could take up that challenge successfully. Mr Macdonald wished the squadron good luck. “I have been privileged to see you. You must remember that New Zealanders back home will be watching you,” he said. Before he addressed the troops, Mr Macdonald watched them in parachute preparation training, wireless instruction, wrestling, boxing and unarmed combat. He was accompanied by the Adjutant-General (Brigadier R. C. Queree), the squadron’s commander (Major Frank Rennie), and the commandant of the Army Schools at Waiouru (Lieutenant-Colonel D. A. Caughley).