WEEK-END BIVOUAC

Dominion, Volume 27, Issue 148, 20 March 1934, Page 10

WEEK-END BIVOUAC

Territorial Training WELLINGTON REGIMENT During the week-end the Wellington Regiment held a bivouac at Trentham, under the command of Lieut.-Colonel J. L. Saunders, D. 5.0., V.D. Rifle, machine gun, intelligence, transport, and signalling sections all did a full course of work. Saturday afternoon was spent at the rifle range, where the more advanced small arms training was carried out by the rifle and Lewis gun section. “Fire and movement” practice gave the troops a graphic illustration of the volume x of lire power which could be developed in a short space of time, and which would enable them to beat down an enemy's fire. On Sunday, after divine service conducted by ■ the regimental chaplain, Rev. H. E. K. Fry, the day was spent in tactical manoeuvres by the machinegun and rifle companies.- The intelligence section was out doing field sketching and reconnaisance work, while the signallers devoted their time to field telephony and visual signalling. The work of the transport section cqvered saddlery, equitation, and the organisation of battalion transport. Incidentally, few people realise that no fewer than 120 horses are required with every battalion of infantry for transport purposes. Messing arrangements were under the control of the regimental quartermaster, Major T. L. Buxton. The regimental medical officer was Major W. Shirer, N.Z.M.C. The degree of enthusiasm with which the territorials applied themselves to their task was particularly commendable. and it was quite evident that the work done was of a nature to give every man a lively interest in the proceedings. Altogether it was a happy crowd that detrained at Lambton Station on Sunday night, and the only complaint heard was that the camp did not last long enough. An endeavour will probably be made to hold a further week-end bivouac at a later date. The Wellington Regiment still has vacancies for recruits, who should ap- ' ply personally to the adjutant at the Drill Hall. Buckle Street.