Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10th., 1928. ARMISTICE DAY

Greymouth Evening Star, 10 November 1928, Page 6

Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10th., 1928. ARMISTICE DAY

r J’EN years ago, to-morrow, the whole work! was relieved by the signing of the armistice which ended the. fighting in the Great War, and efforts from then io make such armistice the end of all. serious war between the world’s Powers, have been continuous. At times, despondency arises in the minds of some, as to whether the cause of world peace has advanced greatly since 1918, but, all circumstances considered, there is cause for gratification, and hope that the great ideal will, be eventually attained. When the horrors of war were fresh in the memories of the survivors, it seemed easy to establish permanent peace, but experience proved that many difficulties had to be overcome. Often, it has appeared probable that the

task would prove insurmountable, but statesmen, especially British statesmen, persevered, until, today, a review of the accomplishments reveals cause ;for* thanksgiving. ?... r >A. international * pacts, ‘ armaments limitation agreements, the League of Nations’ activities, the realisation of the economic losses through war, and the overcoming of national prejudices, are all helping on the good work, and if similar progress is made during the next decade, world-peace and better understanding between nations should be firmly established. Meanwhile it is the duty of all, to-morrow, to remember those who died, or suffered, in the great struggle, and to resolve that their sacrifices shall not be in vain. Armistice Day is worth preserving, and coming this year on a Sunday, gives added opportunity to make worthy commemoration. All should honour the authorised two-mimit.es’ silence, and pay some attention to the common task of helping to prevent any further international strife. The occasion is not one on which to become maudlin, or to resolve to attempt much in a little time. “Hasten slowly” is a wise motto for peace preservation workers, for it must be realised that the whole world is not yet educated to that point making it safe to abolish armies and navies, and defence forces.

It is a pity that some introduce the political touch into worldpeace movements, acclaiming proposals that would leave the country defenceless against aggression, or in their eagerness to honour foreign flags, pay inadequate respect to their own. Those who decry their own land and its administrations to exalt outsiders are not really working for peace, but arc making a path for the enemy to, take advantage of good intentions. Armistice Day recalls that the first duty of all is to their own, and those who prefer foreigners should not be encouraged or supported in any way.

Armistice Day. observance is not worth retaining by British people unless it inspires true patriotism and loyalty to the Empire and King. Without the Throne the Empire cannot survive, and without the Empire-bond, a country like New Zealand cannot attain the great destiny otherwise hers. Allegiance to the Throne and the Union Jack is essential for generations yet for New Zealand, and it is a wise instinct of selfpreservation, as well as tradition and racial pride, that prompts the majority of New Zealanders to be sincerely loyal, and to determine to withhold support from any who advocate policies absolutely contrary to those that have hitherto held swav here.