THIRD ECHELON PARADES

Evening Star, Issue 23657, 17 August 1940, Page 12

THIRD ECHELON PARADES

BURNHAM MEN MARCH THROUGH CITY FIGHTING SPEECH BY MINISTER [Pek United Press Association.] CHRISTCHURCH, August 17. Units of the Third Echelon of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force from Burnham Camp paraded in the city this morning, and for the third time in II months u khaki column, marching in answer to the call of duty, held the public gaze. Once more there were big crowds lining the streets; onoe more the rhythmic tramp of marching feet) once more the strains of martial music; once more riHc and bayonet; once more the inspiration and example of gallant lads knowing their duty and facing it with a smile. Mostly the crowd looked on m sijeuee, but occasionally there were bursts of cheering as the column passed through the heart of the city. The enthusiasm was repressed, and though the appreciation of the crowds did not manifest itself in demonstrations of unrestricted cheering, there was nevertheless a sincerity in the demeanour of the onlookers that was unmistakable.

The units on parade were the Divisional Cavalry Reinforcements, the 26th (Canterbury) Battalion Infantry Reinforcement, a battalion of the Army Service Corps, the 3rd Echelon detachment of the 6th Field Ambulance, and the New Zealand Medical Corps Reinforcements. The parade was commanded by Lieutenant-colonel J. R. Page, commanding officer of the 26th Battalion.

“The thanks of the people of New Zealand are due to you men for your offer of service,” said the mayor. Mr Macfarlane, addressing the parade. “ New Zealand now Iras men serving in that great little island, England Here they are facing the fot, and it has men answering the call of in Egypt. We who are staying behind know that you, too. will not fail in your duty when your turn conies." Speaking for the Government, the Hon. H. T. Armstrong said the Prime Minister and the members of the Government had nothing hut the greatest admiration for the way the men of New Zealand had responded to the call of duty. The services of the men on parade had been given voluntarily_ in the full knowledge of the possibilities and what it would be necessary for them to face on behalf of freedom. “ We all hate war, but we don’t want to deny to other peoples any part of the freedom that we cherish ourselves.” continued the Minister. “We want freedom for the oppressed as well as for ourselves. We want freedom and the right to govern our country in our own way.”

'* I believe the tide has turned against the enemy. The recent attacks on Great Britain have spelt disaster for the invading forces, and one or two repetitions of what he has met in the past 48 hours will make him realise that it would be better business for him to leave Great Britain alone.” (Applause.) GOVERNOR AT WELLINGTON PARADE WELLINGTON, August 17 The parade of the men of the Third Echelon and the march through the city drew an immense crowd into Wellington this morning. Overhead conditions at first were fine, but a fresh southerly was blowing, and during the speeches brought up a rainsquall. which continued throughout the march. The verandahs along most of the route provided shelter for most of the spectators, and the wind kept the flags waving over the principal buildings and from poles wherever they were hung.. Warm cheers were given to the passing men, with frequent greetings and good wishes from groups of people as individuals were recognised in the ranks. Representatives of both Houses of the Legislature, State departments and judiciary, as well the High Commissioners, trade commissioners, and many prorilinont people gathered in the enclosure at Parliament House. ' Lord Galway was accompanied by Ladv Galway and Captain Lord Dormer, A.D.C. Speeches in addition to that of Lord Galway wore made by Mr Fraser, the mayor (Mr Hislop). Mr Hamilton (Leader' of the Opposition), and Mr Jacobs (Dominion vice-president of the R.S.A.). A prayer was offered by Archdeacon Bullock, vicar-gcneral of the Wellington Diocese, and all joined in the Lord’s Prayer. THE AUCKLAND FUNCTION AUCKLAND, August 17. Auckland was filled with martial music and spontaneous cheering to-day when the battalions of the_ Third Echelon paraded at the Domain, and later marched through the city for luncheon on the waterfront. Bronzed and physically fit, the soldiers impressed all as worthy comrades of those already on service.

The speakers at the Domain were Colonel Weir, 0.0. Northern Command, the mayor, Sir E. Davis, Mr Nash, and Air Coates.

Mr Nash said that since he last addressed soldiers in the Domain, one by one those nations united with Britain had been submerged, and Britain now stood alone, undaunted and full of courage. The New Zealand soldiers would defend national freedom. Mr Coates spoke as a soldier to soldiers, and in a fighting speech contrived to set them all laughing. ‘