SEPARATE BODY FORMED

Southland Times, Issue 24548, 24 September 1941, Page 6

SEPARATE BODY FORMED

Returned Men Of Present War Although many of the returned soldiers of the present war have already joined the Returned Soldiers’ Association, a move is being made to form a separate organization. An Invercargill man, who returned from overseas service recently, has received a circular letter from Mr A. E. Chamberlain, honorary secretary of the 2nd N.Z.E.F. Association (Incorporated) with headquarters at Auckland. The circular sets forth the objects of the association. These include the maintenance and comfort of members and their dependents, especially those who may be disabled, sick, aged and needy; and active participation in planning for rehabilitation. In reference to the latter aim the letter states that the association will endeavour to see that the views of the men of the services overseas are ascertained and properly considered. The association, the letter states, has already been provided with representation on the Advisory Council dealing with rehabilitation. The membership of the association is open not only to members of all the services who have served overseas in any branch of the armed forces, but also to the next of kin of men who are serving overseas at present. The circular claims that the association, although young, is virile, and that branches have already been formed in various centres and that others are in process of formation. The circular is accompanied by a questionnaire which the recipient is asked to answer. It deals with arrival and reception in New Zealand, pension and hospital treatment and experience of rehabilitation. The returned man is asked if he has noted any defects in these matters and to suggest remedies.