LIEUT.-COMMANDER SANDERS, V.C.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LV, Issue 16798, 14 March 1918, Page 8

LIEUT.-COMMANDER SANDERS, V.C.

• Sir,—Great apathy is shown by the general publio of to-day in the recognition of gallant deeds. Perhaps this is through callousness bom of the everyday occurrence of gallant deeds. The premier V.C. holder of the present war was an Auckland boy, —that grand hero who lost his life battling for his country, after gaining the greatest- honour that man can achieve. His deeds were of such a nature—although not up to the present published— the highest in the land are moved to express their high appreciation. Our King sends a special mail, sealed by bis own hand,. with a personal letter of praise, thanks, and appreciation, with regret at the loss lof such a gallant lad. The Admiralty ! speaks of him as ranking with Nelson, Drake, and others. Admiral Beatty writes his father of the many great qualities of the brave son. Yet Sanders, V.C.., D.5.0., is hardly known in his pwn city. There has been no enthusiastic meetings' of appreciation of his merits, although enough is known to warrant • a monster demonstration to honour the hero— New Zealander, an Auckland boy, Takapuna bred. Can our publ'c men not be urged to make such representation to each centre that a national shilling subscription may be organised, so that sufficient should be raised to erect a suitable monument, such as a granite obelisk, in a prominent position, on a coast line overlooking the sea that was his battling ground. This might be supplemented by a hospital or ward for seamen. Would it not be. possible to get a grant from Parliament to erect such monument ?, The father of Sanders, Y.C., D.5.0., is j in poor health, struggling for a living at Takapuna. It would be a fitting tribute to the memory of the brave son to grant a national pension to the father, so that his latter days may be made easier. It is our duty. Sincerely hoping this urgent appeal may bear fruit. W. Blomfield, j Mayor iof Takapuna.