The Hutt News Wednesday, July 8,1942. SOLDIERS LETTER

Hutt News, Volume 16, Issue 6, 8 July 1942, Page 4

The Hutt News Wednesday, July 8,1942. SOLDIERS LETTER

The following letter has been received by the parents of a local boy serving with the Forces in the Middle East: — I was very glad when I heard that we were leaving Lybiu and going to Syria; it should be much better up there. On the way down we experienced the worst sand storm yet. You could hardly see a thing in front of you and I reckon it was one of the most uncomfortable days I have spent in my life. We were given the job of bringing back 90 German prisoners and had the opportunity' of getting their opinion of things. They were not the usual surly type of Germans; when captured they did not put up much resistance and were no trouble to guard. They seemed glad that, for them, the war was over. One of our chaps could speak German and the Germans talked freely. They are quite optimistic about their chances of winning the war and reckon that they have got Leningrad, and that Moscow is surrounded. They believe they will beat Russia by August. They also think that Japan will take Australia and New Zealand; that America will not be able to help Australia in time and that the American fleet is sunk. Quite a lot of them fought , the New Zealanders at Sidi Ilesigh. We are now enjoying a short spell at Base Camp for the first time. It's good to be able to sit down at a table for your meals, and having plenty of water, after roughing it for so long It certainly is a. wonderful camp with plenty of entertainment. The weather is getting warmer and an odd fly or two are making their appearance.