SOLDIERS ON LEAVE

Kaikoura Star, Volume LXI, Issue 43, 5 June 1941, Page 2

SOLDIERS ON LEAVE

PUBLIC FAREWELL. There was a large attendance at the Drill Hall last night, when five soldiers on leave were honoured, and all spent a pleasant time to music supplied by the Royal Dance Band, extras being played by Miss Scott and Mr E. Scott. The soldiers present were Privates H. Gilchrist, L. Chapman, C. Clemett, A. Barnes, and J. Reardon. Apologies were received for the absence of Privates A. Steele and O. Nordstrom. Dr. R. L. Withers, who apologised for the absence of the County Chairman (Mr F. J. Monk), on behalf of the people of Kaikoura and as president of the Kaikoura branch of the R.S.A., said all joined in expressing good wishes to the men present on leave. He referred to the stirring events that had taken place since the last send-off, paying a tribute to the valour of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, especially the Maoris. Dr Withers extended sincere sympathy to those suffering distress as a result of the rec-ent events in Greece and Crete. That night they were honouring five men, and all appreciated their loyalty. The pick and flower of New Zealand’s manhood were going overseas, and all owed a debt of gratitude to the boys who were fighting on our behalf. “Seeing this is the first opportunity we have had of sending a direct and personal message to the men overseas,’’ said Dr. Withers, “we hope you will express our admiration to these men for their gallantry. ’ ’ On behalf of the people of Kaikoura he wished them the best of health and good fortune and a safe return, and presented each of the soldiers with a gift from the people of the district.

Dr. Withers said there had been a difficulty in regard to welcoming home men who had returned, but an organised welcome hoTne would be arranged. Mr P. M. Kerr, on behalf of the N.Z. Workers’ Union, thanked the Patriotic Committee for giving them the opportunity to join in the farewall and allow them to make a presentation to Private L. Chapman. He endorsed the remarks of Dr. Withers and said he felt the men would do the right thing. He wished them the best of luck and an early and safe return. Private J. Reardon returned thanks on behalf of his comrades for the kind remarks of the speakers and for the gifts from the public. All joined in singing “For They Arc Jolly Good Fellows’’ and a soldiers’ dance followed.