All Blacks Of The Air?

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 307, 25 September 1939, Page 11

All Blacks Of The Air?

Sir, —There appears to be a widespread desire in the community to make some special effort to assist Britain in her struggle. New Zealand is raising a special force, but we have yet to learn whether such a force will be required overseas. Whether it is required or not, that force is what is expected of us. Could we not make an unexpected move—a voluntary effort on the Hues of that which resulted in tlie presentation to Britain of the battle-cruiser New Zealand on the eve of the Great War?

Times have changed and the country is now toeing called upon to shoulder a heavy burden of war taxation. . We cannot find millions for a special, additional purpose. But we might manage something. Britain is in need of air pilots and New Zealanders are coming forward for this service. Would it not be an attractive gesture—and a valuable one —if the people of New Zealand undertook to contribute, man and maintain a force of 15 interceptor fighters for the air defence of London—that grand old city who is the heart of what we call Home? This squadron could be known as the All Blacks. It would be created and supported (through the British Air Aliuistry) 'by New Zealand. Our ace pilots would aspire to it and be maintained in it by their kinsfolk. The 15 All Black machines would bear the silver fern and the squadron maintained at its full strength throughout the war. What would this involve? What would it cost? Perhaps some of our air enthusiasts would be prepared to answer these questions. All a layman can offer is the idea. —I am, etc., TEAMWORK. Wellington, September 22.