OUR MERCHANT NAVY

Hutt News, Volume 17, Issue 24, 17 November 1943, Page 5

OUR MERCHANT NAVY

As' the Festive Season draws near

the uioughia of those whose worn it is 10 care nor the men of the Merchant iNavy turn to uiose_ men who will be at sea. Y\/nile we ana Imuran els ol' others are enjoying, all that Christinas means —the giving and receiving of gifts—the singing, laughter ancl happiness, these men will t>e crossing dangerous waters in ships that are blacked out and battened down, and under the constant strain of watching for attack.* which may come in so many forms. These are the men for* whom every effort Is made to cheer the Christmas Season. The Ladies' Har bour .Lights Guild, and the many other willing helpers connected with the Missions to Seamen, organize special'efforts to raise funds for the liurchape of gifts. The gifts consist of novels, table games (such as Chinese Checkers, Draughtsmen and Boards, Chessmen, Flaying Cards, Monopoly, etc). Also handkerchiefs Bhaving and toilet requisites, sweets. The gifts are so distributed thajl each department on board has a fair proportion of games and books, thus' enabling them to share their pleasure with their shipmates. Further, before each ship leaves our port the chaplain obtains a list of the members of the crew and the parcels are addressed individually to those who are to receive them.

On Friday, 26th November, the Lower Hutt members of the Ladies' Harbour Lights GUild. and their friends will hold a jumble sale in St. James's small hall to raise funds to provide Christmas presents for the brave men of the Merchant Navy. Assistance in kind of money from those who realise that no country is more dependent on its aeanien than New Zealand, will be

much appreciated. Donations may be sent to the hon. secretary, Miss Lucas, ?> Bloomfield Terrace.