CIVIC RECEPTION

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 89, Issue 303, 24 December 1945, Page 5

CIVIC RECEPTION

MEN RECENTLY RETURNED CHRISTMAS ATMOSPHERE A large three-tier Christmas ckke t variegated paper hats and cigars gavt an atmosphere of the festive season to tiie civic reception and complimentary luncheon to returned personnel in the R.S.A. Hall on Saturday. Most of th« men present returned to New Zealand loward the end of last week by the Mooltan, but there were others who had r.L previously been entertained hi this way. The gathering was arranged for Wanganui and district men by the City Council and the Counties of Wanganui and Waitotara. It wan tiie ninth of its kind held in Wanganui and to date nearly 1000 men have been .so entertained. Cr. E. Vv. Merewether presided and, associated with him in proposing the 1 toast, “Our Guests,” were Mr. R. Farley, speaking on behalf of both counties; Mr. J. B. F. Cotterill, M.P : the Rev. H. W. Austin, Council of Christian Congregations; Mr. W. J. Forsyth, R.S.A.; Mr. B. McElwain, 2nd. N.Z.E F. Association; Major D. W. Curham, M.C., N.Z.T.S., Army, and Mr. N. R. Bain, City Patriotic Com- ; mittee. “This season of peace on earth and goodwill among men is an appropriate time for men to return from overseas,” said Cr. Merc .ether. He added that there was still much to be done in rehabilitating all returned men in the community. "Our thanks,” he said, “are due to you boys for the job you have done in bringing the war to a successful conclusion.” Committees had been set up to deal with rehabilitation problems and every effort was being made to do the work efficiently, said Mr. Farley. “As citizens, we owe a debt to you, and this is just one of those opportunities of showing appreciation,” said Mr. Cotterill The business community was ready and anxious to give a helping hand with rehabilitation, but the men should not be in too much of a hurry to settle down. They should think things over well before choosing a business or occupation. “As citizens, continue that, spirit of comradeship that was so evident in civilian life,” Mr. Cotterill added. “New Zealand is proud of you and what you have done for New Zealand,” said Mr. Austin. “The Christian congregations welcome you and are anxious to co-operate and assist you in every possible way. We hope that the New Year will fulfil your most cherished hopes and ambitions.’’ Mr. Forsyth welcomed the men on behalf of the R.S.A. and said the association extended a message of goodwill to the wives, mothers and fiancees of men who had not returned. Major Curham paid a tribute to the town clerk, Mr. C. R. White, and his assistant, Mr. J. Gilmour, for the good work they had done during the year in making arrangements for these receptions to returned men A welcome on behalf of the 2nd. N.Z.E.F. Association was extended by Mr. McElwain. The Patriotic Committee’s work had been made possible as a result of the support given by a very generous public, said Mr. Bain. Funds were still in hand for the future, which was always an unknown quantity. “This Christmas will be the first celebrated in peace for six years,” he added. “We have had inconveniences caused by war, but none of it§ horrors. When celebrating and rejoicing we must not forget those who have given their all, and also you fellows who have done all that was asked of you. You boys □re back in the best little country in the world and it is in your hands to keen it so.”

Squadron - Leader R. M. Clark, D. R N.Z.A.F., Sub-Lieutenant Austin. R.N.Z.N.V.R., and Staff-Ser-geant Byers replied on behalf of the men and extended their warm appreciation of the welcome home. The principle entertainers were Messrs F. Wilkie, A. Newrick and Mr. E. Burgess (pianist).