Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE. FRIDAY, JANUARY 20th., 1939. SCOTTISH’ REGIMENT

Greymouth Evening Star, 20 January 1939, Page 6

Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE. FRIDAY, JANUARY 20th., 1939. SCOTTISH’ REGIMENT

AS a general principle, it is open to argument whether it is wise for Overseas lands to encourage the formation of distinctly national units, English, Scottish, Irish or Welsh, it being claimed to be preferable to sink such distinctions, and endeavour to be one united race, be it New Zealand, Australian, South African or Canadian. However, tra-

dition and pride of descent are tenacious and probably a bettor, say. New Zealander is developed when a man is inspired by memories of the particular home of his fathers. ]n any case, it is impossible to eradicate these “national'’ characteristics, and so long as the lesser duly to the past does not infringe on the greater duty to the present, no harm is done.

Each British race is proud of its history, and each is inwardly conscious that the real superiority is not with the others. None is more demonstrative than the Scottish, and Caledonian Societies

and similar organisations, are organised, world-wide, with the slightest material. The latest example of this aim to emphasise nationality, is the decision to form a N.Z. Scottish Rejgiment, with kilts and bagpipes complete. There are Sassenachs who will not concede that the pipes are musical, but even these detractors admit the influence and fascination of a Highland regiment with band, in marching order. This N.Z. Scottish Regiment is to be allied with the Black Watch, and will thus, have high military ideals to maintain. It is interesting to note that the Black Watch was formed exactly 200 years ago, to watch the Highlanders suspected of revolt plans. The watch of the famous Regiment on its New Zealand relation, will be of a more friendly character.

As is not surprising, llie promoters of Die new Regiment appear to have got much the better of the financial deal with the Government, concerning the provision of the expensive uniforms and equipment, hut the loss careful other races in the Dominion will not begrudge this characteristic achievement. English. Irish and Welsh could not be denied

their own special regiments if they so desired, bin it is doubtful if the necessary enthusiasm will be forthcoming. A valuable stimulus, nevertheless, should be given to Territorial recruiting, generally, by the formation of the Scottish Regiment, which may be relied upon to set the pace. Only those of Scottish descent will

bo accepted as members of New Zealand’s new regiment, which is to be more exclusive than the renowned Homeland Highlanders, which, if report is true, are largely Clan Cockney. Perhaps this is another envious libel on a race noted for long'suffering. Scotch whisky, Scotch broth, Scotch shortbreads, are among the oilier national claims to fame, produced in places other than Scotland but as every Scot knows, these are. but inferior imitations of the real McKay. Seriously, all will agree that the Empire owes much to Scots and to Scottish ideals, and if the New Zealand Scottish Regiment helps to develop these high standards among the youth of to-day, its formation will be doubly welcome. “Moral re-arm-ament ’’ is as needed, nationally, as military re-armament, if what, is best in the people, —as well as what they possess,—is to be safeguarded.