ANZAC DAY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22390, 9 April 1936, Page 15

ANZAC DAY

Sir, —I have read the arguments for and against the opening of picture theatres in the evening of Anzac Day. 1 have served as a regular soldier in the British Army and had three yeare* service with tlje N.Z.E.F. My suggestion for "Anzac Day" is this: Why not run it on military lines, that is from reveille until sunset, when the bugles are blown and the flags are lowered ? While serving in the British Army (peace time) after sunset was blown we were free to go where we wished. J consider it should be the same on Anzac evening, 1 see no reason why the picture theatres should not open after sunset. I was in our base camp at Staples for a while where trainioads of wounded and dying men were arriving all the time. Tbe pictures were still kept going and no one took any notice of it. I have left some sterling comrades on the fields of France and it is nice to remember them on Anzac Day. Ex-Gunner.

Sir, —I agree in every way with your correspondent, M. Page, that Anzac Day should not be a full day of mourning. This sacred day only opens old wounds. Would it not be a brighter idea if the various ministers would give a short service, say of ten minutes, on the Sunday nearest Anzac Day. I myself have iost dear relatives and friends who I am sure would not wish me to be sad and sorrowful in the knowledge that thev died to make us happy and free. M.S.