Second Edition. UNDER CANVAS.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIX, Issue 14, 7 May 1914, Page 6

Second Edition. UNDER CANVAS.

WEDNESDAY'S' MANOEUVRES. "SPLENDID IDEA OF ACTUAL WARFARE." .. (Stratford Post Special.) Takapau Military Camp, May 7. . Yesterday's manoeuvres were successful from a practical standpoint, and gave onlookers a splendid idea of actual warfare. - The country was most suitable for the work, which was carried out in magnificent style. The men started, from camp about nine o'clock, and the final assault took place at 12.30. ' No finer practical /war-lesson will be given in New Zealand. , General Sir lan Hamilton and General Godley critically. ; watched operations, and a scheme General Hamilton suggested later on was carried out by 'the mounted men and excellently executed. The march-past took forty-three minutes. General Hamilton said the. attack was worked well. He was pleased with the appearance and weight of the attacking party, which came up well and delivered the blow in good ' time, the result being realistic. The march-past was headed by the mounteds, with the infantry last. Addressing the officers, General Hamilton said there was great necessity for well-trained scouts. The scheme was too complicated, and should be simpler. The infantry attack was admirable, and the mounted men were good! It would take more, experienced officers and men to get over the ground better. The engineers, instead of .doing entrenching work, should be engaged in bridge-work to allow of the advance of the guns. General Hamilton concluded by saying that lie was very pleased indeed with the work.. ■■' General Hamilton presented service medals and left for Palmerston by the §.30 speoial," train. To-day the artillery engaged in liveshell practice outside the camp area. The infantry are continuing their regimental battalion training. To-morrow,there will be a big sports meeting, while several football matches ' will take place on Saturday.