FAITH IN TROOPS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23544, 3 January 1940, Page 6

FAITH IN TROOPS

UPHOLDING TRADITIONS GENERAL'S TRIBUTE KEENNESS OP ALL RANKS PHYSIQUE AND BEARING Complimentary comments upon the physique and bearing of the troops at the Hopuhopu and Papakura military camps, were contained in a letter written last night by Major-General B. C. Freyberg to Colonel N. McD. Weir, officer commanding the northern military district. "I regret that my inspection of the troops of tho Second New Zealand Expeditionary Force in your district was by force of circumstances so hurried," Major - General Freyberg wrote. "I would have liked to have spent at least one day in each camp. At both Waikato and Papakura camps 1 was particularly impressed with tho physique and bearing of tho troops. Their turn-out was good and their arms drill and marching very creditable indeed. " "I did not have sufficient time to complete the inspection of the two camps, but from what I saw I am satisfied that the troops are being well looked after. Papakura camp is particularly well laid out, and reflects credit on all those responsible for its planning and construction. My outstanding impression is the keenness of all ranks, and I have no doubt whatever that the Second New Zealand Expeditionary Force will worthily uphold €he reputation and traditions of our predecessors, the First New Zealand Expeditionary Force.''