SOLDIERS' RETURN.

Lake County Press, Issue 2790, 19 June 1919, Page 4

SOLDIERS' RETURN.

Weloome-home Social at Appowtown.

On Friday evening a welcome-home social was held in the Atheneum Hall, Arrowtown, for Rifleman D. Cosgrove and Private Thomas Beckett, who have recently returned from the front. Unfortunately Private Beskett was unable to attend owing to illneeß, a letter of apology being received from Mr J. W. Brown on behalf of tbe absent soldier. Mr Brown also apologised for not being able to attend the social himself. There was a very large attendance, and Mr G. H. Romans, ohairman of the Reception Committee, presided. Mr Romans, in a few well chosen words, extended a hearty welcome to Rifleman Cosgrove, and expressed regret that Private Beckett was not able to attend. He also extended a welcome to the following soldiers who were on the stage : Corporal Mcßride, of Timaru, who is a grands on of Mr John Jenkins, Crown Terrace ; Private Harold Beaufort, of Roxburgh, who i» a

8011 of Mr and Mrs Thomas Beaufort, former residents of Arrowtown; and Private Joseph Kirby, who went from Gibbston. Mr Romans said that, on behalf of the Reception Committee, he had to thank the residents of the town and district for the way they bad attended the various farewell and welcome-home socials held during the past three years, and he was sure that the people would continue their support to the end. He also thanked the ladies for their very valuable services in connection with the the socials ; also the Rev. J. Rattray. Mr Romans said he also had to thank Mr Jack Dakers for assisting with the dance music that evening, as their usual player, Mr S. Stevenson was indisposed. The Rev. J Rattray also extended a hearty welcome to Rifleman Cosgrove and the other returned men, and complimented them on the services they had rendered their country. In acknowledging the chairman's word of thanks, Mr Rattray aaid it was always a pleasure for him to assist in any way at functions for the soldiers. Mr Romans then presented the customary medal to Rifleman Cosgrove, and said that Private Beckett's medal would be presented at a later social or for* warded to him. Rifleman Cosgrove briefly replied thank* ing the people for the reception extended to him, and for the medal presented. The music for the danoe was supplied by Mr J. Dakers (violin) and Miss Stevenson (piano), while Mr S. Peacock, as usual, made a most efficient M.C. During the evening Miss Ryan ( Waitahuna) contributed a song, which was much appreciation. The ladies provided refreshments.