FAREWELL TO SOLDIERS

Kaikoura Star, Volume LX, Issue 53, 1 July 1940, Page 2

FAREWELL TO SOLDIERS

ENTHUSIASTIC GATHERING. It was an inspiring sight to see such a large assemblage of well-wishers present at the Camp Pavilion on Thursday night, on the occasion of tin' farewell social to Privates Hanmer Monk and John Brunel, who were to leave on Friday for canq) following their final leave.. Private Jim Lane was also present, being home on sick leave. The County Chairman (Mr F. J. Monk) presided, and Dr. R. L. Withers represented the local branch of the Returned Soldiers’ Association. Dancing was indulged in to spirited music supplied by the Royal Dance Band. During an interval the County Chairman expressed appreciation at seeing such a large number of citizens present to bid farewell to the young soldiers, and complimented the men on their public spiritedness in going overseas to do service for their country and Empire. He also complimented the two families on the fact that in one case three sons had enlisted and in the other two. He wished the departing soldiers I God-speed, good hick and a safe return, and presented each with a wristlet wa.tch on behalf of the public. With the gifts went the best wishes of the people of Kaikoura, and he felt sure that each , time they looked at their watches it would remind them of the happy days spent in Kaikoura. Dr R. L. Withers said it was quite thrilling to see so many present to bid farewell to the boys going overseas to do battle on behalf of the people of N('w Zealand and for their country and Empire, also to join their pals who were already overseas. On them depended the safety of each of those present. He felt sure they would give a good account of themselves, despite the new conditions. Listening to the broadcast from England on the landing home of the New Zealanders and Australians, he felt assured that the boys would receive* just as thrilling a reception. Dr Withers concluded by wishing the men God-speed, all good luck and a safe and quick return. Mr F. S. IT. Warner, Headmaster of the District High School, thanked the chairman for the opportunity of saying a few words. The boys had been under his charge during their school days, and he could sincerely say from what he knew of them they would play their I part overseas in an equally capable ■ manner. He vfrished them all good luck and a safe return. Although Private Lane was not going with his mate, he felt he, also, would perform his part

On behalf of the Kaikoura Volunteer Fire Brigade, Mr Monk presented Pri\ates 11. Monk and J. Lane with certificates, having performed throe years’ service with the brigade. The Brigade, he added, had jierfonncd excellent service in the district, and their work was purely voluntary. Captain S. Allan said the two men would be very much missed, as they had proved popular and energetic members of the Brigade. He wished them tin 1 best of luck and a safe return. Private Brunel thanked the speakers for their kind remarks, and the people for an enjoyable evening, also for their gifts, wliich were much appreciated. He would endeavour Io do his best in Prix ate Monk also expressed (hanks to the people for their gift, to the speakers for their kind remarks, and to the people for giving them such an enjoyable lime, lie felt he was only doing the right thing, aml assured those present that he was thoroughly enjoying his now life. Private Lane said he xvas not going away just x'el. but hoped to be with his pals very shortly. 3’ho parents of the boys wen* also complimented. All joined in singing “For They Are Jolly Good Fellows.” Supper was served by the ladies and a most onjo.vable evening terminated at midnight. A number of apologies won* reeeixuM from those unable to be present.