35 Maori Recruits Pass Medical Examination

Northern Advocate, 20 December 1939, Page 2

35 Maori Recruits Pass Medical Examination

Medical examination of recruits for the Maori Battalian carried out in Whangarci yesterday afternoon revealed a strong type of man. Although the majority of the recruits were short, the average height being sft 4in, they were strong and nuggety, and secured an exceptionally high percentage of passes. Ot the 41 men examined, 35 were passed at fit, only six being found permanently unfit. Alteration in the dental requirements, providing for treatment in camp, is responsible for the high percentage of passes. Maori Giant Turned Down. Thirty men called up for examination did not-attend, no reason being given, allhough it is known, some were over age. and others were in reserved occupations. One of the Maoris who came forward jipr examination was a massive man weighing 18st 41b, with a chest, measurement of 48in. and an expansion of fin. Although reputed to be able to lift an average man on the end of a longhandled shovel, he was not passed, the tost being fitness, and not strength. Reserved Occupation Revision,

Revision of the list of reserved occupations, as far as the Special Military Foric is concerned, is suggested •n some quarters if sufficient volunteers arc to be -found for the Second Echelon. It is believed army officers have been instructed that men in reserved occupations are to be medically examined. but no authority has been received for dental treatment. This instruction is considered to be a prelude to an investigation of the men and their occupations. 18-Year-Qld Enlists. Giving his age as 21, a 17-year-old youth enlisted in Whangarci and was ready to be called up for the Second Echelon when his father visited the Army Office, produced his birth certificate and blasted his hopes of embarking cn a military career.

To join the supply column of the Special Military Force, J, H. Clark, of Kaikohe, has received instructions to proceed immediately to the Hopuhopu Camp at Ngaruawabia.