SIR ALEXANDER GODLEY.

Waikato Times, Volume 116, Issue 19462, 29 December 1934, Page 5

SIR ALEXANDER GODLEY.

HONOURED AT INVERCVARGILL. .' EX-SOLDIERS and NURSES. (By Telegraph.—Press Association.) INVEARCARGILL, Friday. •■Filled with a desire to do honour to their old oommander-in-chief, the returned soldiers and army nurses of Southland assembled in large numbers last evening for an Informal welcome to General Sir Alexander Godley and Lady Godley, who were received with great enthusiasm. It was the wish of Sir Alexander that he appear among ex-soldiers as their old comrade-in-arms. He met and shook hands with everybody there, recalling old memories and rejoicing in the company of the men whose welfare had once been placed in his hands.

After a short toast had been honoured, -he presented badges and life membership tickets of the Inveroargill Returned Soldiers’ Association to the nurses present, and had supper with a number of former soldiers. Colonel J. Hargest, M.P., who was accompanied by Airs Hargest, a former member of the army nursing service, presided, and also present were the Alayor of Invercargill, Mr John Miller, and the Mayoress. The attendance was fully representative, comprising soldiers, padres and nurses. In proposing the toast of the guests, Colonel Hargest said some of those present had come 50 miles to see General Godley, who lived in the" hearts of the men.

In reply, Sir Alexander, who was applauded to the echo, said he was very proud that so many of his oomrades of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force had come to meet him. He looked on himself as a New Zealand soldier. At the conclusion of Sir Alexander’s address the gathering rose and sang “ For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.” Lady Godley also thanked the returned soldiers and nurses for their welcome.