MR. C. M. BURDEKIN RETIRES

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 89, Issue 214, 10 September 1945, Page 5

MR. C. M. BURDEKIN RETIRES

LONG SERMCE WITH GOVERNMENT London, Sept. 2. When the victory in Europe liberated New Zealand prisoners of war from Germany hundreds made New Zealand House their first place of call in London. They wanted to see the big Jovial man who had been one of their best friends during their years in enemy hands. Most of them knew him only by his signature, C. M. Burdekin, but that name, belonging to the man in charge of the New Zealand Prisoner of War Section in London, came to stand for their official contact with their own country. It was such a friendly, helpful hitman fink that they were overflowing with gratitude when they met him face to face. Now that his work for them is finished, Mr. Burdekin is taking his retirement which had been postponed for the duration. Yesterday ollicial farewells were said and Mr. Burdekin listened to warm tributes to his long service of more than 42 years with the New Zealand Government, both in the Dominion and London, and particularly his service as head of the prisoner' ot war section since 1940. Dr. R. M. Campbell, official secretary, said farewell to Mr. Burdekin on behalf of the High Commissioner (Mr. W. J. Jordan) and staff, and read a cabled tribute from Mr. Jordan,

Major-General 11. K. Kippenberger told how Mr. Burdekin’s name had become known through the N.Z.E.F. as well as the camps of Germany and of the debt of gratitude the men and their relatives felt they owed him and his staff. Mr. Burdekin and Mrs. Burdekin received a presentation from the New Zealand Government and the staff.