WELCOME HOME

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 53, Issue 32479, 13 September 1944, Page 6

WELCOME HOME

GNR. DAVE HAMILTON PRESENTATION MADE WHENUAKITE FUNCTION A most popular function was held at the Coroglen Hall on August 31 to welcome home Gnr. D. Hamilton, elder son of Mr and Mrs J. Hamilton of Whenuakite. The hall was crowded and included a large number of friends from Tairua, Whitianga, Coroglen and Whenuakite.

Mr Ken Hamilton capably carried out the duties of M.C. and the committee worked hard to make everything so successful. Mrs Rose was the musician and Mrs G. Ross played extras while Mr Mackay of Thames also assisted.

Mr J. Howe of Auckland, song two solos in his usual good - style. Mr W. Melling sang several popular songs to the accompaniment of a string instrument. There were several novelty dances.

The presentation took place just before supper and everyone applauded heartily, as the guest of honour, accompanied by his parents, took their places on the stage. Mr K. Hamilton introduced the speakers and then a lovely bouquet was presented, to Mrs Hamilton by Joan Harsant. Mr H. Hinds spoke on behalf of Whenuakite residents and! expressed his pleasure to welcome home Gnr. Dave Hamilton who had surely proved himself a good soldier of the famous Eighth Army. He had served three and a-half years overseas and during that time had gone through very severe tests of endurance and suffering. However, he had come -through well. Mr Hinds also spoke of the great esteem on which Mr and Mrs James Hamilton and family were held in the district. He handed a cheque to Gnr. D. Hamilton from the Whenuakite residents and another cheque from the Tairua Guild with all good wishes. Other speakers included. Mr W. Harsant who spoke on behalf of Hahei, Mr M. Minifie for Coroglen and Mr F. Brophy, for Whitianga. All very capably expressed their good wishes and pleasure to join in the function of welcoming home this popular soldier. Gnr. D. Hamilton very suitably replied and thanked everyone for their attendance and kindness. He could not speak highly enough of the medical corp and the attention of the doctors and nurses during his illness.

Musical honours were then accorded to the guest. .

A lovely supper was served. . The function closed 1 with the National Anthem. x