Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1940. THE NEW ANZACS.

Greymouth Evening Star, 13 February 1940, Page 6

Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1940. THE NEW ANZACS.

’’pHE popular belief throughout the Dominion, that the First Echelon had landed somewhere in Egypt, has now been officially confirmed. There was little, real anxiety about the safety of the troops whilst on the voyage, naval precautions being such as to minimise risk from enemy activities, but, nevertheless, it is wel come news that the transports reached the port of disembarkation, and all is well, so far, with the new Anzacs, Every practicable effort, apparently, was made to permit, the voyage to be comfortable for the thousan.ds of men on board, and for the time being almost a “ picnic” atmosphere prevailed. Some allowance must be made fori

official desire to paint the picture in the brightest colours, but, propaganda apart, it is certain that the new armies are better looked after and equipped than were the original Anzacs. Nor is this comparative luxury confined to the sea voyage. On landing, the New Zealanders and Australians found camps awaiting them of a model character, competent preparation and administration smoothing the path of the soldiers. They were further encouraged by a message from the King, brought by the Secretary for the Dominions (Mr. Eden) who made a special flight to meet the new Anzacs. These marks of attention prove the sincerity of the Homeland’s welcome and gratitude, and augur well for future co-operation and understanding. It is realised by the new Anzacs that stern business is ahead, and that the enemy is by no means to be despised, if his defeat is certain. Confidence in eventual victory will not be allowed to induce slackness, and when the days come of actual fighting, today’s generation can be trusted to emulate those who fought in the 1914-18 campaign. Subsequent echelons will have similar experiences to those of the first contingent, and, generally, although there must be some natural anxiety among relations, friends and compatriots of those now on active service, consolation will be found in the evidence that the men’s welfare is being safeguarded to so great an extent. The enthusiasm aroused by the news of the landing in Egypt, should have a stimulating effect on recruiting. It would be a great score for the Dominion, if the necessary numbers of recruits required were forthcoming voluntarily. The issue cannot, be much longer evaded. Additional echelons and reinforcements are essential, and if volunteers are not available, conscription will be unavoidable. The alternative would be to leave in the lurch those who have patriotically given their services. Those too old to enlist, or who are prevented by circumstances, can do their part by helping. to the best-of their ability, the funds having as objects the supplying of comforts to the troops. The regular arrival of these gifts will help to make less arduous the ordeals facing the soldiers, and will demonstrate to them that although lost to sight for the time being, they are nor forgotten. The Dominion, from now on, will be increasingly “in the war,” and it ‘s to be hoped that nothing but

nod news will come from where ever the new Anzacs are engaged