SOLDIERS’ COMFORTS

Grey River Argus, 29 July 1940, Page 10

SOLDIERS’ COMFORTS

BOOKLET ISSUED Much useful information dealing with selection, packing, and dispatch of comforts to members of the New Zealand armed forces is concisely and clearly set out in a booklet compiled bv the National Patriotic Fund Board “Comforts for Men in the Armed Forces” is the title. The board’s unaddressed gift parcels scheme is explained. Under this scheme, parcels bearing no address are sent at intervals to the men overseas so that each will receive a parcel from his. homeland. These goods are packed in bul.< and,' whenever possible, enter overseas countries as Army stores and are admitted free of Customs duty. Then follows useful information about addressed parcels sent by relatives and friends to specific members, of the forces An important point is tha<-, provided no tobacco, cigarettes, or liquors are included and the parcels do not exceed 11 pounds in weight, they will be delivered in Egypt free of Customs duty. Another note reads: “A small parcel sent frequently is more appreciated than a large one occasionally.” Suggestions are given of the contents of such parcels ana about the wrapping of them. Other items deal with work that is done in this country for the men at home stations, for visiting naval ratings, the Air Force, nurses, and deepsea merchantmen, and the nature of the war work being carried out in the Dominion and the articles that are required. The functions of the Lady Galway Patriotic Guild are explained. One sections sets out the rates of pay for the naval and military forces, and also dependants’ allowances.

In addition there are general knitting hints, and knitting patterns for socks, mittens, gloves, scarf, balaclava, khaki stockings, sea-boot stockings, heelless socks, sleeveless pullover, and a polo-neck pullover. Recipes for fruit cake, shortbread, and gingernuts have been included. The printers, Thomas Avery, Ltd., New Plymouth, agreed to print the booklet at the cost of paper, materials, and time engaged only, and the staff of the same firm agreed if necessary to work overtime at ordinary rates of pay. Other work associatedj

with the compilation was done without