"Army might have suited gangs’
PA Auckland Some gang members who rampaged through Northland last week could have had distinguished Army careers if they had gone to war, the superintendent of Oakley Hospital (Dr P. P. E. Savage) believes.
Properly channelled, their aggression would be a military virtue, Dr Savage said. Army life and war would mature them and give them a sense of purpose although they could find the discipline uncomfortable.
Dr Savage said that their mindless, physical courage would have advantages in the Army. “This could be channelled for high-risk Army positions, such as being a rifleman or infantryman.” Many gang members could be "knocked into shape” by the Army, he
said. Liquor was a catalyst of many brawls. “In the armed forces, nobody cares how much you drink as long as it does not affect your fighting efficiency,” Dr Savage said.
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Press, 11 August 1979, Page 9
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144"Army might have suited gangs’ Press, 11 August 1979, Page 9
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