ANOTHER WAR BOOK

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXV, Issue 18552, 26 April 1930, Page 17 (Supplement)

ANOTHER WAR BOOK

AUTHOR ACCUSED OF SLANDER. (United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.) (Received April 25, 11 p.m.) LONDON, April 24. Brigadier-General Crozier’s book named "Brass Hats in No Man’s Land,” throws a most harrowing sidelight on army life in field, which the critics condemn as slanders i n men who went to France. Brigadier-General Crozier described (he execution of a soldier for cowardice and desertion. Enough spirits were left beside him to sink a ship. He was unconscious when tied to the stake. A Volley was fired and persumably this was ineffective, after which a subaltern despatched the man. The reviews also quote the author as saying free love was inevitable for many celibates of hoth sexes, engaged in war work in 1914-1918. statements criticised. APPEAL TO END WAR BOOK. (United Press Association-By Itlectrla Telegraph—Copyright.) (Received April 25, 11 pm.) LONDON/ April 24. Brigadier-General Crozier is the centre of considerable criticism; particular objection is taken to the soldiers’ relations with women. Many women prominent in war work, entirely repudiate the allegations. Brigadier-General Crozier replying emphasises that the book does not disparage fighters, but attacks the system which he maintains is vicious. “It is impossible to invent fairy tales how the disease hospitals were filled in war ime, or how canteens made millions selling spirits to boys, who should have been at school. People are such humbugs and will not face the truth. The crities are well aware, I have told the truth. War Is a gigantic compromise with the devil and a Christian country ceases to be Christian. Hence to maintain a chaplain is out of place in war.” General lan Hay vigorously attacks the war book, depicting soldiers as beasts. Apart from the untruth, they are distressing, to the relatives of the fallen. "I know from correspondence there is great resentment in the Dominions, particularly Australia. Let us end all these books.” Similar views are held by BrigadierGeneral Critchley who disputes the accuracy. He says: I have seen the court martial and death sentence carried out, but I have never seen anything like the execution BrigadierGeneral Crozier describes. I have not heard of the victim being drugged.”