SOLDIER’S THANKS

Southland Times, Issue 24445, 27 May 1941, Page 4

SOLDIER’S THANKS

PATRIOTIC COMMITTEE’S ACTIVITIES

A letter of appreciation, expressing thanks for the work of the Metropolitan Patriotic Committee for the forces overseas has been received by the chairman of the executive of the Southland Patriotic Council, Mr W. Grieve, from Lance-Corporal D. R. Mackay, of Ohai, who has been invalided home recently. The letter says: “As it is not possible to thank all those concerned with the patrotic work that is being done in Southland and other parts of New Zealand, I am taking this opportunity of expressing my thanks for their kindness to me both overseas and on my return to New Zealand through illness. In expressing my thanks I know also that my feellings towards this great work k also the same as all my comrades I left overseas. I received various parcels sent by the Patriotic Society in my 16 months overseas and they were very much appreciated. There was always great excitement when the parcels arrived and if the people could see the boys on these days they would indeed be proud to know what they are doing and have already done is indeed something to be proud of. Also on my return to New Zealand I have been well treated. After being in hospital only a few hours I was left with comforts and the paper sent from a member of the Invercargill Red Cross. The same day I was visited by the leader of the Patriotic Society in Invercargill and also received comforts and an assurance that anything I should be needing would be forwarded if required. I was also given a wonderful welcome by the people of Ohai and I received a presentation from them. It is my main desire in writing this letter to show in some small way my appreciation for the kindness shown to me and to all the boys. I can assure you they appreciate it and as I said at my welcome home in Ohai I hope it won’t be long until we will be welcoming all the boys back home again. My sincere appreciation of this fine work.”