MONO ISLAND CHURCH

Evening Star, Issue 25170, 9 May 1944, Page 7

MONO ISLAND CHURCH

IMPRESSIVE DEDICATION CEREMONY vN.Z.E.F. Official War Correspondent.) TREASURY ISLANDS, April 27 ' Auzac Day on Mono Island was marked by a gathering of New Zealand troops for the purpose of dedicating the Falamai Memorial Church, built by voluntary labour by troops in memory of New Zealand and United States servicemen killed in the taking of the Treasury Islands. Due to the exigencies of service, the dedication was postponed from April 25, but this did not detract from the importance or the solemnity of the most impressive ceremony. New Zealand and United States senior officers on the islands attended, and the lesson was read by Brigadier L. G. Goss, commanding officer. The service was conducted by Padre E. Shield, N.Z.K.F., who was assisted by Chaplains A. H. Marsh (United States army) and Daly (United Stales navy), and Padre A. R. Withcrford (N.Z.E.F.). The anthem was snug by a native choir, and the New Zealand Soldiers' Choir and the American army band was in al tendance. After the ceremony; fhe natives of the choir made presents of grass mats and native clubs, which were handed over as gifts lo the members of the battalion first concerned with the building of the church.