TERRITORIAL CAMPS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21295, 23 September 1932, Page 8

TERRITORIAL CAMPS

The announcement that camp training for Territorial units is to be resumed this summer will be received with enthusiasm by the volunteers themselves and applauded by all who realise how vital is the annual camp to efficiency and the growth of esprit de corps. Under the compulsory system the camp was the most popular feature of the year's work. Youths -who grudgingly attended evening parades went to camp with alacrity and there they gained more military benefit than they could acquire in the rest of the year. Without some regular experience "under canvas," where for the period a man lives continuously the life of a soldier, units cannot develop the military substance and soul which is the purpose, nor can the individuals forming them put a finish upon their! physical development. That the men should be paid for camp attendance will not be questioned. The total cost will not Ite great seeing that the strength of the Territorial Force is under 7000. The times are difficult, but this expenditure must be faced if the force is to survive. At present some units are greatly below establishment, the number of officers being out of all proportion jfco the roll of the ranks, but the assurance of camps should stimulate enlistment. This is especially desirable, seeing that so many youths are unemployed and in need of some discipline and physical culture. Upon the community in general an obligation rests to make opportunities of acknowledging the services of the volunteers. Too readily does a war-weary generation forget the significance of a military uniform and the patriotism that actuates the wearer. The coming camps should give the chance for civic authorities and citizens in general to express their gratitude to the land forces.