TO THE SOLDIERS

Evening Post, Volume LXXXVIII, Issue 60, 8 September 1914, Page 8

TO THE SOLDIERS

■ • KITCHENER'S MESSAGE The Federal Minister for Defence last week received a full copy of the message handed to each member of the British Expeditionary Force on its embarkation by Lord Kitchener. The Minister is having the message printed for distribution amongst the Australian units when they leave for the front. It reads as follows— You are ordered abroad as ft soldier of the King to help out- French comrades against the invasion of a common enemy. You have to perform a, task which will need your courage, your energy, and youv patience.. Remember that the honour of the British Army depends on youv individual conduct. It will be your duty rwb only to feet an example of discipline itnd perfect steadiness under five, but also to maihtain the most friendly relations \with those whom you are helping in tins struggle. The operations in which you wilH for the most part take place will be in a friendly country, and you can do your own country no better service than in showing yourself in France and Belgium in the true character of a, British soldiel'. Bo invariably courteous, considerate, and kind. Never do anything likely to injure or destroy property, and always look upon looting ac a. disgraceful act. You are sure to meet with a welcome, j and be trusted. Your conduct must justify that welcome and that trust. j Your duty cannot be done unless your ! health is sound, so keep constantly on your guard against any excesses^. In this new experience you may find temptations; but you must entirely re* sist them. Treat all women with perfect courtesy, but avoid any intimacy. Do your duty bravely ; fear God ; honour the King. /