THE VOLUNTEERS.

New Zealand Times, Volume LVIII, Issue 2747, 19 February 1896, Page 3

THE VOLUNTEERS.

The annual encampment of the Petone Navala at Petone and Fort Kelburue broke up on Monday night, when a “ social ” was hold in the Drillshed, Lieutenant-Com-mander Kirk presiding. The attendances at tho camp have been excellent throughout, and great interest has been taken by the men in the work. The examinations in gunnery were held by Major Messenger on Monday night, the result being that all who presented themselves passed, several obtaining the maximum number of marks. The Volunteer year closes at tho end of this month, after which Lieutenant-Commander Kirk proposes to increase the gunnery watch by transferring two detachments which have previously been engaged in submarine mining. Tho annual muster parade of the D Battery was held at Mount Cook last nigh t 63 of all ranks being present under Captain Warren, with whom were Lieutenants Rolleston and Hume. Tho Garrison Band to the number of 15 were also present under Bandmaster Herd. The Battery was inspected by Lieutenant - Colonel Nowall, after which they marched through tho town headed hy the band to the Thorndon Drillshed, where they were dismissed. During the evening Captain Warren, on behalf of . No. 2 detachment, presented Lieutenant Hume with an illuminated address and a gold-mounted stick as a token of their regard on his promotion from tho rank of bombardier to that’ of lieutenant. Lieutenant Hunqq suitably replied.

The annual week’s training of tho Heretaunga Mounted Rifies, commences at the Ilntt to-day. lieutenant - Colonel Newall will inspect the corps on Friday, and the volley and independent firing will bo, held on Saturday, The Wellington contingent will leave at 0 o’clock this evening.