CRITICAL DAYS

Timaru Herald, Volume CLI, Issue 22202, 20 February 1942, Page 4

CRITICAL DAYS

A Task For All “NO MUD-SLINGING” Congratulations on their good showing were extended to the troops in the Wairarapa when they were inspected by the Governor-General, Sir Cyril Newall. An inspection was carried out, followed by the march past, his Excellency taking the salute. Addressing the men, his Excellency said he had always had a soft spot in his heart for the Infantry, and some of his happiest days had been spent with them in an English regiment. He was confident that whatever the men were called on to do they would do well. Their forefathres had shown courage and determination in overcoming difficulties. Their fathers in the last war had set a magnificent standard of courage and determination, not only to New Zealand but to the whole world. In this war their brothers in Crete, Greece, and North Africa had set an equal standard. “To-day,” said his Excellency, “we are living in a time of grave national danger and supreme crisis. Hitherto the people in this country have been looking on from the grandstand, but things may be different now. The Allies have received blows, and there is a likelihood that they will receive further blows. Everyone must make a determined effort to pull together. ' “This is no time for mud-slinging or ill-informed criticism. Considered, constructive criticism is welcome. It is necessary for everyone to do something —every man, woman, and child—all must have an allotted task. All must be prepared to make sacrifices, and to give up some of the things we have enjoyed in the past. “When we receive bad news we will not mope, but will do something more, and do it better, and be cheerful if we want to win through.” Sir Cyril concluded by impressing on the men the necessity for maintaining perfect physical fitness, and wished them all the best of luck.