THE VETERANS’ ASSOCIATION.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17014, 12 April 1923, Page 8

THE VETERANS’ ASSOCIATION.

On Monday evening the members of the Veterans’ Association held the first of a series of social evenings. A number of members of the Non-Commissioned Officers’ Club were present by invitation. Major Leeming gave some reminiscences of the Great War, especially relating to New Zealand troops. He referred more particularly to the artillery sections of the Forces. He traced tbc course of events from the moment the bugle of war was sounded up to the big camp at Awapuni. Here he emphasised, the splendid type of man who had answered the call. He instanced how these peaceful men were moulded into a real fighting machine, ready to go wherever commanded. Stories of camp life, on and off duty, were told, and the embarkment and landing in Egypt were described. Major Leeming spoke feelingly of the sufferings and fortitude of the men at Gallipoli, where the first V.O. was wen for New Zealand by Corporal Cyril Bassett. The speaker then dealt with the great evacuation, and explained how such a .splendid piece of work was carried out. He then spoke of the action in France, where the New Zealand troops were first introduced to the grim game of warfare, pitted against powerful, well-trained forces. During the course of his address Major Leeming touched on the other branches of the services. Navy, Infantry, Signallers. Balloon Sections, Aeroplanes, Tanks, and A.S.C., and spoke of the great work done by the various sections. At the conclusion of the lecture a number of questions were asked by members, anti these were readily answered by Major Leeming. Major Leeming was accorded a vote of thanks for his address.