WEEK-END CAMP

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVIII, Issue 23880, 3 February 1941, Page 8

WEEK-END CAMP

FIRST BATTALION COMBINED TRAINING ACTIVITY AT AVONDALE Unusual week-end activity at the Avondale racecourse camp on Saturday afternoon and yesterday marked the first combined training of the Ist Battalion, Auckland Regiment, and its reinforcements, which are at present camped at the racecourse. About 600 men in all took part in the training, which continued up to 4.30 p.m. yesterday. Room was made for the serving territorials in the camp by the granting of general leave to the men of the 22nd Field Company, New Zealand Engineers. Although it was apparent that even with their addition the battalion was not at full strength, the reinforcements, who have now had two months' training, proved a line addition to the unit. This was depleted by the call'for officers and non-commissioned officers for the 2nd and 3rd Battalions, and while awaiting the training of men to fill the gaps the Ist Battalion has been holding monthly parades to keer up efficiency. This is the first time it has been in camp since the end of its three months' training in September. Practically the whole field of training was covered during the week-end. After an uncomfortable night, wher the men of the battalion slept on bare boards, yesterday, with its hot sunshine, proved a full day. The battalion witli its increased strength had its firsi combined drill. A similar camp will be held on February 15 and 16, when it is probable that the battalion wil undertake field exercises.