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Hokitika Guardian, 6 December 1940, Page 4

Tiik further ballot for men for overseas service, is a reminder that our interest in the conflict grows more and more intimate ns time passes. New Zealand is pledged to play a part in common with the rest of the Empire for the maintenance of freedom. Those who contemplate the alternative to succeeding in the war, will realise the price to bo paid for failure. The progress of the war so far gives ground for persevering with the task in hand. Despite the great odds on this occasion. Great Britain is standing up manfully to the task in hand. A great burden is cast on the Navy in the endeavour to keep the sea clear of menace. It has succeeded remarkably well, for only enemy ships below the surface, and sea raiders arc able to operate in isolated places. The main fleets of the enemy keep to the ports, and there is no direct challenge to the Navy policing the seas. In the air, too, starting well behind the enemy in machines and men, Britain, with the aid of the Dominions, and the allied forces, has been more than a match in fair combat. The tactics of the enemy now are devoted mainly to night attacks on English cities, which are bombed indiscriminately. Great damage is done, involving loss of life. While in return the British fleet bombed military objectives in Europe, and achieve more decisive results from an effective war point of view. The British fleet is fighting vigorously and tirelessly on many fronts, and achieving results which affect the enemy. With all the bombing of English cities and the destruction of ancient landmarks, the spirit of the people is undimmed, and the morale of the nation stands high. It is recognised the Avar will not be short, and decisive strokes cannot be looked for too soon, but a plan seems' to be in mind for major developments when the Avinter is past. It is evident more men Avill be needed, and those now being called up "'ill have an important part to play in the later campaign. Tho country has done much for its 'soldiers on this occasion, both in training and treatment, lhe young men have a notable experience before them, and as those aalio have gone forth already will distinguish themselves in keeping Avith the traditions the Neiv Zealanders have set up, and also in behaviour, will continue to maintain the good name of tho country.