TIDE OF WAR TURNS

Manawatu Standard, Volume LXIII, Issue 23, 26 December 1942, Page 4

TIDE OF WAR TURNS

CONFIDENCE IN VICTORY

PREMIER’S MESSAGE WELLINGTON, Dec. 20. “There is more cause to-day than ever since the outbreak of this war for reasoned confidence in the ultimate success of oui alliance for freedom,” said the Prime Minister (Mr Fraser) in a Christmas message issued yesterday. On behalf of the War Cabinet and the Government he thanked the personnel of the Fighting Forces for their magnificent achievements in every zone of war in so many different regions throughout the world, lie also thanked all the men and women of the Armed Services and the civilian forces in New Zealand, and the workers who helped the war effort in every way. A great record of varied service stood to the credit of the people, he said, and it would not be blemished by any slackness in the future.

“For the fourth Christmas in succession war mocks the ideal of peace on earth and goodwill toward men, asid Mr Fraser. “Men and women or resolute faith still believe, nevertheless, that evil cannot and shall not prevail in the end against the forces of justice and freedom. So the fight for liberty and tolerance goes on, and will go on till the United Nations triumph over cruel and wanton aggression and re-establish peace ana goodwill. , . “Here in New Zealand the people, while still cherishing and putting into practice as far as they can the ageokl sentiment of Christmas, also maintain the spirit ot stern realism. Even in the happiness of this period they will not be diverted from the determined purpose of doing everything in their power to co-operate without stint with the peoples.ot the United Nations in the attainmen of complete victor}'. NO NEED FOR PESSIMISM.

“The tide of war has definitely turned this year, anl is with gathering strength now running with us,” added the Prime Minister. “And there is no need for pessimism about the procspects next year. This outlook docs not mean that the menace to liberty has ceased to be formidable. It still persists and many hard blows and heavy sacrifices will be required before the danger is removed, botli in the East and in the West. “\Vc can all look back across this eventful year with gratitude and . pride. Our Armed Forces everywhere in the moet exacting tests of warfare have set a noble example in courage, fortitude, and devotion to duty. They have enriched the history of New Zealand and inspired their kinsfolk and people for generations to come.

. REMEMBER THE FORCES. “To-day we remember our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and army nurses and wish for them the traditional Christmas respite amidst the turmoil and hazards of war. Let us also wish with the fervour of prayer that their immediate reward for great service and uncomplaining sacrifice will be victory in the coming year. “One of the many tragedies of wall’s the sorrow- it thrusts into thousandof households. For many of our people to-day their happiness and comforts must be found in memories of devotion to duty and great sacrifice by their loved once in far-off fields of battle. We offer to lbom our heartfelt sympathy and gratitude. “Wo arc all in thi- relentless, unremitting struggle against powerful and ruthless enemies, and in paying tribute to our Fighting Services wc must also bo prepared and willing to render some form of tribute to the nation’s war effort. To our Armed Forces overseas and in fill’s country, to all citizens, I extend Christmas greetings and best wishes for their happiness and good fortune in the coming year.”