MAORI BATTALION

Greymouth Evening Star, 1 November 1939, Page 8

MAORI BATTALION

RECRUITING ARRANGEMENTS [per PRESS ASSOCIATION.] WELLINGTON, November 1. It has been decided that recruiting for the Maori Battalion will be continued till further - notice, and that the date of entry into camp of the main body of the battalion will not be until the New Year, approximately January 18. Up to noon yesterday, the enlistments totalled 917, being as follow: Northen districts 604, central 294, southern 19. Army, officers have been instructed to make arrangements -for -Medical Boards, and Travelling Board's are to be used if this is cheaper than assembling the men. Maoris who have registered for the Special Force and are still in their areas are to be treated as recruits for: the Maori Battalion. Men. who have already been medically examined and classed fit,- or perman ejitly .unfit, are riot to be re-ex-amined. Fit men only will be attested' A , small number of European officers, will be appointed to the Areas have been instructed to forward the .names and particulars of any . officers willing ,to : serve,-; and are considered suitable for appointments,., such ..as quartermaster and company. commander. Particulars- are' also. to be supplied as. to the rank,' age, conjugal condition and dependents of any Maori officers'or ex-officers who volunteer, and . are. passed medically fit. Maoris, .-now in camp with the special force, as.well as those in areas passed medically fit, will be given equal consideration, when the ■ selection is made.

The. selected officers, both European and Maori, and prospective officers and N.C.O.’s will be despatched so as to arrive at Trentham on. November 26 for training at the army school.