AT THE CAMP

Waikato Times, Volume 126, Issue 21037, 13 February 1940, Page 5

AT THE CAMP

NEW ZEALAND TROOPS COMPLETE EQUIPMENT GREAT CARE FOR HEALTH (United Press Assn.—mec. Tel. Copyright', (Received Feb. 13. 11.15 a.m.) SUEZ, Feb. 12 The first echelon of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force disembarked and journed to a newlyconstructed township of camouflaged tents and wooden huts. It was played to camp by the bands of two battalions. Nurses from the ships are proceeding direct to camp, where wards have been assigned the New Zealand medical staff. The site has been converted in eight weeks from waste into a small township. The lay-out involves seven miles of tarmac road, a com-

plete sterilised water system, and four miles of drains. There are more than 150 huts, erected by local labour under Army supervision. These comprise kitchens, dining-halls and canteens. All ranks sleep under canvas, four to a tent. Major-General Freyberg’s tent is perched on a small knoll in the centre of the camp, commanding an all-round view. The amenities include hot and cold shower baths, a cinema, recreation rooms, wireless, table tennis, darts and newspapers. Supplies of Scotch ale and tea await the troops. Health of the Troops Major-General Freyberg says that, profiting by the experience of the Great War, the greatest care is being taken of the health of the troops. The dishes are sterilised daily, and each man receives a few drops of creosol disinfectant for his hands before every meal. Sixteen miles of butter muslin have been bought for the protection of the food. A swimming bath is being constructed, also a travel bureau, enabling visits to historic places at small cost. Major-General Freyberg said it must not be thought that the troops are in for an easy time. Strenuous work lies ahead. The men will be kept training hard and will have time off only at week-ends. AUSTRALIANS’ LANDING MR ANTHONY EDEN PRESENT (United rre>s Assn. —Eicc- Tel. Copyright) (Received Feb. 13, 12.40 a.m.) LONDON, Feb. 12 Before the Australians landed Mr Eden boarded one ship and listened while Sir Miles Lampson read the King’s message.