First Mangamutu Recruit

Manawatu Times, Volume 65, Issue 187, 9 August 1940, Page 3

First Mangamutu Recruit

On Tuesday evening residents of the Mangamutu district gave Private D. Blair, of the Third Echelon, and the first recruit of Mangamutu to enlist, u complimentary dance in the local half. There wa3 a large crowd of well-wishers and the function proved most enjoyable. Tho programme of dance music was made up of old-titno and modern numbers and was efficiently controlled by Mr. D. O'Brien. After the serving of a delicious supper, the guest of the evening was introduced to those present by Mr. W. McClenaghan, who stated that if Private Blair was as good and efficient a soldier as he had been a civilian, he would do well in the Army and be a worthy representati\e of Mangamutu. On behalf of the residents of Manga* mutu, he called upon Private Blair, who incidentally is the first Mangamutu recruit to enter camp, to accept a handsome wristlet watch and fountain peu. Eulogistic reference to Private Blair’s fine qualities was also made by Mr. L. J. Heayns, who trusted he would meet with success in his new sphere and ietnrn safely. The best wishes of the residents of Hukanui were conveyed to Private Blair by Mr. Wilson Twenty man, who also trusted the guest of honour would soon be back among his friends at Mangamutu. Private Blair briefly replied, thanking the residents for their gifts and the kindly sentiments accompanying them. Musicl honours followed. During the evening extras were flayed by Miss P. Lawson and Mr. Fletcher. HAMUA HONOURS RECRUIT PRIVATE GRANT SMITH Hamua residents gathered in large numbers at the Hamua Hall on Tuesday evening to do honour to Private Grant Smith, a local member of the Third Echelon home on leave. The evening took the form of a dance, which was greatly enjoyed aul lor which music was supplied by Mr. Ken Hicks* orchestra. At & suitable juncture Mr. Carruther.s called upon Private Smith to accept a wristlet watch on behalf of the people of Hamua. He extended best wishes for the recipient's success in the Army and expressed the hope that he would Tcturn safely. Mr. R. Mabey also spoke, voicing similar sentiments. A presentation was also made by Mr. Carrutbers to Private Smith on behalf of the Hamua Women’s Institute. The guest of honour suitably replied, thanking the residents for their kindness and expressions of goodwill. Following the brief presentation, community singing of popular songs of the last war was indulged in. Also present as guests were Privates Luoni and Morris, of Ekctahuna. .

The Master of Ceremonies was Mr. R. Mabey, while the ladies served a do ttcious supper during the function.