AFTER ARMISTICE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 89, Issue 86, 12 April 1945, Page 7

AFTER ARMISTICE

PATRIOTIC WELFARE COLONEL WAITE'S VIEWS The importance of continuing to send patriotic gift parcels and other comforts overseas for the New Zealand Forces is emphasised by Colonel F. Waite, Commissioner for the National Patriotic Fund Board, in his latest report to the board from Italy. “No one can say how long the war in Italy will last,” he says, “but with shipping difficulties it may be assumed that there will be considerable numbers of New Zealanders in the Middle East until the end of 1945. Especially after an armistice, welfare will be more than ever necessary. I would strongly urge that, there be no cessation of gift parcels and other shipments until it is quite certain that there is no further need for them.” Shortly before writing his report Colonel Waite had returned from a visit to advanced base Senigallia, Riccione, Forli, Fasza, Florence, and Rome. He left Cairo for Italy with the New Zealand Minister of Supply (Mr. Sullivan), and mentions that the minister was impressed with the welfare services of the 2nd N.Z.E.F. “The personal interest taken by the G.O.C. and all the senior officers of the 2nd N.Z.E.F. in the whole range of welfare activities,” he adds, “has resulted in a very high standard of service. This service has been made possible by the generous supply of goods and finance from New Zealand. I happy to say that at all times, I ana my staff, and the board’s expending agents have had the utmost help and consideration.” * Snow and mud on the northern Italian front, stated Colonel Waite, had made the hostels at Riccione and Forli, and the leave centres at Florence and Rome more valuable than ever. “At Riccione where there are 105 beds and at Forli where there are 54 beds,” the report continues, “the men come straight from the line for fours days’ rest. This rest period is entirely free, and it Is difficult to estimate the morale value of those four days, out of the mud and in a warm building, with plenty to eat at a table with a white table cloth, and with reading and writing facilities. All mending and washing is done for the men and they really do appreciate the break. The hotels at Rome and Florence put. up their leave parties for a week, and the men have the opportunity of seeing the sights, visiting the onera, the art galleries, and the shops.” On his inspection tour, Colonel Waite said ho had the opportunity of seeing most of the service at work. The mobile cinemas were providing a very good service.