MAKING MEN FIT

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 40, 10 November 1917, Page 7

MAKING MEN FIT

THE CI CAMP'S WORK. Almost the last thing which might bo expected of the C' 2 men who have since been sent into the CI Camp at Featherston is the one thing which strikes the visitor to that place of busy training. The characteristic referred to is keenness. After being, possibly, refused as volunteers, and afterwards rejected .19 balloted men, the recruits might justifinbly have exhibited indifference. But the reverse is the case. Even those who have little chance of becoming "A." men are keen. There are, of course, fainthearts or unwilling ones among them, but, for tho most part, tlie Cl men are triers.

On entering cpmp the men are drafted into three classes—X, Y, and Z. The X's aro the fittest and the Z's are those who will require- more than ordinary training to make good. The doubtful ones go into Class T, and there are very few Y's. Distinguishing coloured badges are worn to indicate the classes, and in small squads they are put through elementary stages of soldiering. They are taught to left and Tight turn, salute, stand to attention, and other simple forms of drill. After this comes the special work for which the camp has been organised. Physical drill, games requiring agility and speed of movement and military exercises are in the syllabus, as well as route-niarehing. As showing how the camp has justified itself, it may be stated that out of 10-1 men of X class who were boarded last week 89 were passed .is "A" men—that i.«, men who are considered fit enough to carry tho rifle in the reinforcement drafts. The close interest taken by the medical officers and the training officers and n.c.o.'s is tTi" great factor which is making tlin Cl Camp a success. The eagerness of the majority of the men also playa a prominent part. Civilians who have seen how the schemo -works have expressed the view that such a. course of exercise in the ooen nir should be taken by civilians, and that in after-war days -such a plan should bo considered and put into effect.