N.Z. TROOPS IN ITALY

Evening Post, Volume CXXXVI, Issue 125, 23 November 1943, Page 3

N.Z. TROOPS IN ITALY

Division Rejoins Bth Army

The presence of New Zealand troops in Italy was announced today by the Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Nash), who said that he hoped to be able to release further news soon, but for the time being he was unable to say more than that the New Zealand Division had rejoined the Eighth Army in Italy, where it had received a very warm welcome from General Montgomery and his staff. v. ■■ ■ %■ Mr. Nash added that General Freyberg was in constant touch

with the Government and had informed them that the journey

/across the Mediterranean, now dominated by the Allied navy and -air forces, was an uneventful and smooth voyage under ideal conditions and was greatly enjoyed by all ranks.

A new and modern building and a imall restaurant had been taken over in the city in which the Division was based as a New Zealand Forces Club ifor .men on leave. The management team had come from Cairo, as had supplies of New Zealand goods. ; ' "READY FOR NEXT ROLE." The General concluded his message •with these words: "Now that the final phase of the war against Germany appears in sight there is a feeling of exhilaration in ttte air. After their rest in Egypt and period of training all ranks are ready for our next role whatever it may be.*'

"As soon as circumstances permit," said Mr. Nash, "news will be released as to the role assigned to our Division in the Italian campaign.

"Meanwhile, I know I speak for all the people of -New Zealand when I say that our hearts and our thoughts are with these famous New Zealanders who comprise what is probably one of the finest divisions in the world tor day. Our wish is that good fortune will attend their arms and that the cause for which they have fought so gallantly and well will soon be brought to an early and triumphant conclusion."