“TOOK TO BUSH”

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 61, 15 March 1943, Page 4

“TOOK TO BUSH”

ALLEGED DESERTION AND ESCAPE (P.A.) Auckland, March 13. The story of how he had hidden in the bush for about nine months until he was arrested at Waihi by civilian police on February 24 was told by Private C. V. Hutton when he faced a district court-martial on charges of desertion and escaping from custody. He pleaded not guilty. The evidence revealed that Hutton had never worn uniform. He had originally been a defaulter in failing to register. After he was dealt with on that ground he disappeared at Frankton while being taken, under escort to Wellington on May 21. Hutton submitted that he had no intention of deserting. He went to a convenience at Frankton and while there heard the train pull out. He thought there was a second train, but found when he came out that both had left. He “got the wind up, took a taxi to Waihi, and went immediately into the bush.” The finding of the court will be forwarded to the convener, MajorGeneral P. H. Bel], for confirmation.