NUHAKA’S WELCOME

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20186, 2 March 1940, Page 4

NUHAKA’S WELCOME

AN ACHILLES SEAMAN ANOTHER FOR SERVICE ENTHUSIASTIC GATHERING (Special to the Herald.) NUHAKA, this day. A large gathering in Unity Hall, Nuhaka, on Thursday evening served to welcome Seaman Ron Pemberton, of H.M.S. Achilles, and to farewell Stoker Hector Ramlose, who was leaving to join his ship. The two naval men were given a rousing reception when they entered the hall. They were greeted with loud cheers, followed with “For They Are Jolly Good Fellows,” and were escorted to the stage, which had been gaily decorated with flags and flowers. Stoker Ramlose is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Ramlose, Nuhaka, and Seaman Pemberton is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Pemberton, No. 3 Camp. Mr. J. Duley, whose three sons served in the Great War and who, himself, was an instructor in camp, said that it was fitting that Stoker Ramlose should be the first from Nuhaka to join the navy, for his father had been one of the first in the district to offer his services and leave for overseas with the New Zealand forces in the last war. He also said that the residents were proud to welcome a member of the crew of H.M.S. Achilles, which had taken such a creditable part in such a memorable battle.' Souvenirs Presented Mr. W. Mitchell, chairman of the Nuhaka branch of the R.S.A., presented both naval men with a souvenir gift, wishing them the best of luck. Mr. S. Christy, representing the Maori people, expressed pleasure in knowing that the two races were fighting shoulder to shoulder again for the preservation of democracy. Seaman Pemberton and Stoker Ramlose suitably replied, the former giving a brief resume of his experiences in the battle, and at the close those present gave the two men a great ovation. During the evening the gathering enjoyed a programme of dances to music supplied by Mr. J. Stene, Mr. R, Steed acting as M.C. Mrs. Mclvor contributed a song. A buffet supper was served.