OVERTAKEN BY STORM

Waikato Times, Volume 130, Issue 21655, 16 February 1942, Page 4

OVERTAKEN BY STORM

SEVEN SOLDIERS PERISH BLIZZARD SWEEPS ICELAND (United Press Assn.—Eiep Tel. Copyrlgbt) LONDON, Feb. 14 A War Office statement issued in London this afternoon says that about 70 men of the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry were involved in a tragic occurrence on the east coast of Iceland late in January while on a routine training march over the mountains. Weather conditions were good when the men started and remained so until they had almost made the last ridge, which would bring them within sight of their village. Suddenly they were overtaken by a severe blizzard, which so delayed them that they could make little further progress before darkness fell. Snow and darkness made it impossible for the men to keep together, and although most of them eventually reached a nearby farm the company commander and seven others, in spite of the heroic efforts of their companions, died from exhaustion and exposure. The remaining men, after receiving food and medical attention, were able to return to their billets next day. An Icelandic farmer and his family worked tirelessly providing shelter, food and clothing until a rescue party arrived. Their generous and unselfish hospitality undoubtedly saved the lives of many men.