Murderous Bombing In China

Northern Advocate, 9 August 1938, Page 3

Murderous Bombing In China

-N.Z. DOCTOR’S STORY

f Per Press Association. Copyright.] WELLINGTON, Tills Day. The joint council of the Order of St. John and the Mow Zealand Rod Cross Society lias received a report from Dr. Hector C. Trento wan, who is stationed at Ichang. on the Yangtsekiang River, dated July 11, “Thank you for your concern about our safety, but don’t get alarmed,” says Dr, Tremewan. “If we get killed you would soon hear, because we would be international incidents. Furthermore, although not believing in arrant cowardice, I don't believe in meek heroism, such as standing up and cheering when they are dropping bombs. Until you hear to the con- , trary. we arc a hundred per cent. ! “Cholera has broken out here, and S we have received a further thousand 1 wounded, which increases our problems in already overcrowded hospitals. The services of doctors in this ! country will be required for at least ' six months after the conclusion of 1 hostilities. I “Nine bombers arrived at noon —a favourite hour, because shadows are at a minimum—so experts say. A num- [ her of bombs were dropped on the j aerodrome, which is about 400 yards t from the hospital. After the bombing of the civilian population. I emerged and went and had a look at the aerodrome. About 200 coolies were scon busy filling in the holes. In about three-quarters of an hour the aeroplanes came back and caught everybody unawares. They made six mere holes in the air field, and killed or wounded about 200 curious spectators. They appeared in mere hurry on this occasion, and did not aim so well, so a few houses were destroyed as well. As a result, we have had rather a busy afternoon. There were seven operations this morning, and a great deal of X-ray work tonight, which has made quite a full day of it.”