FIRST GIFT PARCEL DURING TWO WARS

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 278, 21 August 1944, Page 6

FIRST GIFT PARCEL DURING TWO WARS

Grateful Merchant Men During the last war and at the outset of the present one it was almost impossible to interest people in the Merchant Service, according to a member of the women’s packing committee of the Overseas Seamen's Gift Committee. However, now the knowledge of the courage and gallantry of Hie merchant men is better appreciated and the New Zealand Patriotic Fund, also provides generous help. Tangible proof that the visiting merchant sailor is not being neglected is contained in the committees’ quota of 25 825 parcels which have been distributed aboard ships that called at Wellington. Many more will go in the near future. v , . . Great pleasure has often been given to the women .workers who pack and send these special parcels (one for each man on board), and provide books, magazines, and an “oddment box” with games, cards, etc., by letters from the recipients, expressing their pleasure and often their surprise. Ono correspondent, who is a second engineer, says: “Shortly after leaving Wellington every member of the crew of the vessel I was on was presented with a parcel from yourselves. I hardly know how to thank you enough for your kindness and the kind thoughts which were behind that gift. It happens to be the first I have ever received during the two wars, also my first visit to. New Zealand, where I received much kindness, and I hope to meet some of your boys in England, and return some of the kindness. Please accept my warmest thanks and deep appreciation.” Another officer writes of tbe acceptable gift and kindly thought of the committee, and adds: "As this is the. first gift of any description I have received during my career, and coining on the. top of much kindness and hospitality, it .goes a long way to seal the bonds of friendship in these difficult times. lam now looking forward to our next visit to your friendly shores in preference to many I have visited iu the past 10 years.” Another sends cordial thanks, and speaks of the warm sincerity and generosity of the New Zealand people toward merchant sailors. “It will be remembered and treasured,” be states.