SAILORS’ GIFT FUND

Evening Star, Issue 23729, 9 November 1940, Page 12

SAILORS’ GIFT FUND

EXTENSION TO MERCANTILE MARINE THEY SHARE THE PERILS [Pek United Piiess Association.] WELLINGTON, November S. In appreciation of the gallantry of British seamen in never failing to take their ships to sea despite the increased menaces of present-day warfare, a movement has been launched in Wellington with a view to seeing that their service on behalf of the Empire is recognised in the same way as that of the Navy, the Army, and the Air Force. A committee lias been formed named the Overseas Seamen’s Gift Committee, with Mr C. M. Turrell as president ami Captain F. A. MTndoo as chairman. It was decided by the committee to send a letter to the National Patriotic Council pointing out the service that seamen are performing on behalf of the Empire, and suggesting that the crews of ships leaving New Zealand for British and foreign ports should receive gift parcels in the same way as the men of the three fighting services. The letter stated that it was realised that each of the excellent societies that work for seamen had greatly extended their peace-time operations, but the committee was of the opinion that a national expression of appreciation would be achieved by the gift of parcels. These could be presented on the departure of every ship. A satisfactory reply was received from the National Patriotic Council in regard to finance for the undertaking for the duration of the war, and a. Purchasing Committee and a Women’s Committee have been formed to deal with the packing of parcels. The hope was expressed that all who wished to share in this work would so,nd contributions to the National Patriotic Council specially marked “ For the Sailors’ Gift Fund.”