JOIN THE HOME GUARD

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXIII, 5 December 1940, Page 3

JOIN THE HOME GUARD

[To the Editor] Sir, —We have now had our third parade of the Home Guard and the Guardsmen seem to be settling down to the work and appear to enjoy it. Already one can sense an atmosphere of ‘Esprit de corps” throughout the Guards. It does one good to see the “old-timers” square their shoulders on parade and the effect on the youngsters is noticeable, they appear to be determined to do their best for their platoon. Now thei-e is another side of the picture. There is the man who is not in the Home Guard but should be. There are a few thousand of them in Nelson. They are satisfied to let their neighbour go instead of them. The excuses put forward by some are interesting but not convincing. It is surprising the number who “are not going to protect their homes” because Mr Semple is holding recruiting meetings. These "small minded” people should be sent to “Coventry.” Then there is the man who cannot give up his tennis, cricket, or golf. Another person is the one who cannot even be bothered to listen to the war news on the radio. His idea is that it is not his business and why worry? We will win, we always do. I say God help us if it was left to him. Then there is the man who is not quite sure if he would be of any use in the Guards. To him I say there is a job for everyone so just go along to the office and sign up or make enquiries and good luck to you. To those who are likely to be called up my advice is go and get the edges rubbed off and tho drill will help you a lot when you go to camp. You will not regret havin' joined the Guards. And lastly, we j have a commander whom we are proud to follow. —I am etc. OLD SWEAT, t Nelson, 4th December.