Voluntary Military Training

Dominion, Volume 25, Issue 120, 15 February 1932, Page 11

Voluntary Military Training

Si r .—Fort Dorset this week, has been the scene of activities in connection with the competition for the Hudson Cup between the 13th'Coast Battery (Auckland) and the 15th Coast Battery (Wellington). Visitors to the forts have brought out several points worthy ot notice. Whilst previous camps have been cheery, th'is one is outstandingly so, ana the participants are to be congratulated on the excellent spirit shown thrmighout, despite very adverse weather conditions. They have suffered rain and storm, and all the discomforts allied thereto without complaint, and they still managed to smile cheerfully when on the last day their “big shoot” was expected and had to be cancelled on account of the elements. . , .. It is of particular interest to note the smartness of all ranks in their woi k both on the parade ground and when manning the guns. There is an air of general efficiency which was not so prevalent in previous camps. Perhaps the reason is not far to seek—these trainees are voluntary, and as such must be regarded as being keen on their work. This would certainly account for a lot, and it would seem that the present voluntary system is superior to the comnulsorv one for that reason .provided always that sufficient members ean be persuaded to join up. One might suggest to the officers and men themselves that they should endeavour to spread among their friends the spirit which actuates them in order to increase their numbers with the right types. The work is interesting, and surely those who participate therein must be the best to instil the right, ideas into the minds of others. —I am, etc,, 8. J. LEVY. Fabruary 12, 1932.