MILITARY MATTERS.

Colonist, Volume LIII, Issue 13049, 8 March 1911, Page 2

MILITARY MATTERS.

VISIT OF COL. J. E. HAWKINS,

V.D., 0.C..D.

Colonel J. E. Hawkins V.D.; O.C.D. continued his tour of inspection on Monday, when he took the College Cadet Battalion on th» College ground. Three companies paraded under their respective commanders. Major Broad being in command of tin? battalion. Under the new scheme of] training, all boys are required to train so there were over 200 of all ranks on parade. Tliie new term having recently commenced was responsible for a large number of recruits, but some excellent work was carried out, and later in the1 year, tho inspecting officer will find a great improvement in tho work. Mr. Fowlier, Principal, accompanied the inspecting officer. On the same evening tho Waimca Rifles were inspected, when the muster was fair under Lieuts. Lewis and Ford. The officers and sergeants put the men through a conrsie of .drill, and Colonel Hawkins favourably commented on the future prospects of the Company under the m'W scheme.

It is understood that in future the territorial train, which hitherto has run only to Wakeiield on inspection nights, will go to J3t<!grov<o. This should give an impetus to the upcountry corps in the matter of new members, and they should have littli difficulty in keeping the companies up to the maximum strength.

Thei'e seems a sort of misconception as to the age of leaving or joining the Territorial force. Those, that arc being now accepted for adult corps must be between the ages of 18 and 21, and medically fit. Those who were 21 years of age on or prior to November 2nd last year are exempt .from service ; those- reaching their 21st birthda.) aftlor November 2nd have no alternative but to serve either in the Territorial force (which is preferable) or the Generall Training section, until they reach the agje of 25 Registration will take place in a few weeks, so that those eligible for service should decide either to join a corps or be prepared for service in the training section. It is of special advantage to employers that those in their employ should join ci Territorial corps. The Officer Commanding the Stoke Rifles has a notice to those wishing to those wishing to become members of that company undbr the new defence scheme, in this issue.

Last evening the H Battery, who are at present undergoing their annual training at the Botanical Reserve were inspected by Colonel Hawkins. There was a good muster of all ranks, under Captain Grace and Lieutenant Brown. After inspection, which was of a minute character, exercises were carried out under the officers time being taken^ on various changes of front. The, specialists were also closely examined and the drivers underwent a catechism on horse management and tin- care of them. The general turn-out and work was sati'actory. There were also present on parade Major Madigan and Captain Stiles.

Colonel Hawkins has now finished his inspection of this Dart of his district and leaves for Wellington this morning. H r has conducted his inspection in such a manner as to inspire confidence in tliie new command.