Military Affairs.

Waiapu Church Gazette, Volume VIII, Issue 11, 1 May 1918, Page 85

Military Affairs.

Report from Rev. J. R. Burgin, C.F., Chaplain to returned soldiers, Aucldand: — The month of March Avas a busy one m many ways, over 2000 sick' arid wounded soldiers being landed m Auckland. I met all the transports and We\comed the men home. Many of them were old friends and comrades of Egypt, France, arid the "Somme days," and it was indeed good to welcome them back. Alas, many Were badly wounded and war strained, and for some life can never be the same, yet m spite of everything* the men are bright and cheerful and have returned feeling that at any rate for them, New Zealand is the one place on earth. I was able to give help m the boarding of the men. The delay m landing the men was cert airily not due to laziness or indifference on the part of the members of the Board. One and all were only too anxious to get the men through quickly, and it was nearly midnight .when we arrived home on the first day. I am afraid that people sometimes do not realise how much there is to do m the actual boarding, when the men return , and for the sake of the meri themselves it must be done thoroughly. In the hospital annexe we have about 130 in-patients arid about 50 men at the Epsom, and Devonport Homes. "• Here I have been able to get m close touch with the men, arid I believe I am of real service to them m

many ways, especially to' those who" cannot get out. I have, frequent services for the men, and on Easter Day I had cele-: brations of : the Holy Communion at Epsom and the Annexe, besides other Easter services. Early m March I paid a short visit to Hawke 's Bay to raise funds for pur new Rotorua Institute. . I preached; and lectured at the following places : Napier Cathedral, Havelock North, ; Otane, Waipawa, Onga Onga, Ormondyille, and Dannevirke. The clergy were most kind and did. all m their power to help me. Mrs Gordon Williams, of Otane, and Mr F, Knight, of Dannevirke, also gave me great assistance m kindly motoring me about to call on likely friends for donations. The Rotorua Institute now being erected will cost considerably over £1000, and I know that it will prove, a real comfort to the sick and wounded, especially during the winter months. Who will come to our help with donations for its cost and upkeep ? Will soirie kind friend present, us with a billiard table, or comfortable chairs, and other furnishings? I am always pleased to hear from relations or friends who would like 1 to meet those belonging to them on their arrival m Auckland, and I am always glad to be of assistance to those m hospital. ! The Diocesan Office, Shortlarid street, Auckland, Avill alAvays find me. Gifts of tobacco, pipes, and cigarettes are always welcome. J. R. BURGIN, C.F. Other reports of camp chaplains and M.A.C. crowded out;