HOME GUARD AND E.P.S.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24861, 10 March 1942, Page 6

HOME GUARD AND E.P.S.

TO THE EDITOR Sir,—l was grateful to read the opinions of " Home Guard," of Heriot, regarding the E.P.S. I consider this body is certainly sheltering shirkers who should be drilling with the Home Guard. In my district we have a man who held a commission with the Mounted Rifles, yet in neither warwould he serve overseas. Nor does he give the benefit of his training to the Home Guard, but shelters as a member of the E.P.S. This is a glaring instance in this district, yet we are appealed to for an all-in effort. In contrast to this in a neighbouring town is an 81-year veteran actively drilling with the Home Guard. Where is the equality of sacrifice? —1 am, etc., Guardsman. Otago Central, March 6.

I TO THE EDITOR Sir, —Some days ago a statement appeared in your columns in which Mr Semple dealt with the Home Guard. As one that makes fritters of English, Mr Semple emphasised that he favoured compulsory service in that body and looked on the E.P.S. with the proud displeasure of a Caius Marcus. The trend of his remarks tempts one to wonder how much the Government is depending for the defence of New Zealand upon this partially trained and partially armed force. (So to describe the Home Guard is not to criticise its members.) The point need not be laboured: its implications are painful. What exercised Mr Semple most, however, was the fact that youths of 20 or so are sneering at Home Guardsmen ("A crutch, a crutch! Why call for a sword!"). Woe unto the world because of offences, says Mr Semple. the case must be altered! As for these irresponsibles. compel them to come in! But it must be replied, Are not nine-tenths of our young men in uniform already? Either that, or where is the effectual working of conscription? Or is conscription that same cowardly, giant-like snare that five and twenty years since deprived Mr Semple of a great career? —I am, etc., Open To Correction. Queenstown. March 6.