Call For Support Of Armed Services

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 31908, 8 February 1969, Page 3

Call For Support Of Armed Services

More than 10 million dollars worth of equipment—tanks, armoured cars and vehicles—were displayed at Waiouru on January 26 for the parade of 5300 men of New Zealand’s combat brigade group and its supporting services.

Mr R. R. Livingstone, one of the many retired officers who were the guests of the Army at the display, is convinced that the New Zealand taxpayer is getting excellent value for his contribution to defence, and that the brigade group is an efficient national defensive force. “As a taxpayer, after seeing

what is being done, with the limited resources available to the New Zealand Army, I think it is unquestionable that the moneys voted by Parliament for the defence of our country are being carefully and well spent,” says Mr Livingstone. “When we compare our efforts with what nations with aggressive intents are doing there remains a great need for public encouragement of and support for our armed services, for an increasing awareness of potential dangers facing us, and for the provision of more funds and assistance for the services. This is in the interests of our own survival. “Without the existing national service scheme New Zealand’s brigade group would not exist. Responsible thinking citizens should ensure that there is no reduction or elimination of the national service scheme for selfish or other reasons,” said Mr Livingstone. “Although the display and review were impressive, they ■ should properly be regarded {only as an indication of what

needs to be dope to organise for the protection of our standard of living. All citizens must be prepared to defend their heritage. It is selfish and unfair to expect others to risk their lives for defence unless the citizens ensue first that their armed services are adequately provided with the best and most modern equipment, backed by the finest training facilities. “We are a country with limited manpower, but our soldiers can be the best in the world. They deserve their countrymen’s admiration and support, financially and otherwise.”