CITIZENS' DEFENCE CORPS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 1124, 18 December 1914, Page 8

CITIZENS' DEFENCE CORPS.

UNIT FORMED IN LYTTELTON. A public meeting was held in the Lyttelton Boiough Chambers last evening for the purpose of discussing the question of the formation of a Citizens' Defence Association in the port on tho lines of those already in vogue :n other centres. Ihere was a very large attendance and tho Mayor, Ml- J. R. Webb, presided. The chairman said the meeting had been called in response to a requisition and it was pleasing to find such gratifying response. The movement was deserving of every support, and it was the duty of citizens to support the project during such a crisis in the Old Country Mr G. Harper, who was present, outlined the steps necessary for the formation of an Association. He stated that the movement was progressing m Christchurch, and on Tuesday evening no fewer than 1300 men had attended a parade The total roll at present was 1711, and over half of. that, number were men who had previously had military training. The main idea of the project was the establishment of a fine of defence to fill the breaches caused by men who may be'called upon to leave home for abroad. Major Barnett the internal ■ arrangements of an Association. \ On the motion of Mr E. U. Just it was unanimously decided to form an Association. Mr E. U. Just was elected secretary. Mr Harper then handed in a roll, and after the Mayor had. attached his signature the number of volunteers in-; creased steadily until fifty persons had enrolled. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded Mr G. Harper and.Major Barnett for their assistance in the formation of a unit. Tho election of officers was left ovsr to another meeting. It was decided to meet again on Saturday evening next at the Drillshed.