FURLOUGH DRAFT

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 118, 14 February 1944, Page 4

FURLOUGH DRAFT

Opportunity To Welcome Wellington Men Today Wellington citizens will have an opportunity of seeing the metropolitan section of the men who recently returned on furlough from the Middle East. “Many of these men have been away from New 'Zealand for over three years, facing a formidable foe in strange lands, said the mayor of Wellington, Mr. Hislop on Saturday. “It is only right that we should do them honour, and for that purpose a luncheon has been arranged for them at'the Allied Services Club ill Manners Street. “But before the luncheon," continued Mr. Hislop, “there is to be a parade through the streets from Stout Street to Manners Street, just before midday. I want everyone who can possibly do so to witness this parade, and to show in no uncertain manner what we think of these boys. They deserve a rousing welcome from one and all, and I make an appeal trf all my fellow citizens to cheer them on their way. , , “I would also like to make an appeal to shopkeepers and others along the route of the parade to decorate their premises with bunting and coloured emblems, as well as they can in the time at. their disposal, so that the men may gain the right impression of out feelings toward them. This is the citizens’ chance to cheer the men who arc playing such a vital part in this great world war.”