BACK FROM PACIFIC

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 65, 11 December 1943, Page 6

BACK FROM PACIFIC

Garrison Troops Return

To Dominion

WELCOME AT AUCKLAND

(By Telegraph.—Press Association.) AUCKLAND, December 10.

A party of approximately 4SO officers and men returned recently after garrison duty in the Pacific. Looking bronzed and lit, the troops set a high standard of marching in their parade through Queen Street on their way to the official welcome at Alexandria Park, Epsom. In command of the party was Major G. G. Hancox, E.D., who stated that the men had served as garrison troops for about eight months. Practically all were grade two medically and it bad been proved that these men could play a worthwhile part in the war effort of New Zealand. The behaviour of all ranks had been excellent. The New Zealand Government had been congratulated by the Australian Government on the conduct, discipline and performance of the men. The health of the troops generally had been good and there had been few cases of serious illness. Major llaneox spoke in glowing terms of the hospitality of the people in the areas formerly occupied by his force. Tn welcoming the party on bthalf ot the Government, the Attorney-General, Mr. Mason, told the men 'hat a number of them would be drafted to civilian life. The exact number would depend on the particular eireumstances of the individual, and all these questions would conic before the manpower and other authorities. “You have had a good snare of those things which go to make tip a soldier's life and which are not so spectacular,” said Mr. Mason. “The people, of New Zealand appreciate your services none the less. Though not dramatic, your duties nevertheless were vital to the. defence of this country. You will be given a reasonable period of leave before bein"- drafted to civilian life.” Most of the South Island men travelled by the Limited express tonight, ami it was hoped to dispatch the men living in parts of the North Islam’ other than Auckland by the afternoon express tomorrow.