CANTEEN CHATTER

Camp News, Volume 1, Issue 5, 12 January 1940, Page 5

CANTEEN CHATTER

(From Our Special Correspondent.)

The modern arrangements provided to interest the “Rookie” is vastly different from that supplied in previous campaigns. Whether the recruit really expects to be fully entertained or not is beside the point. The “Command” deems it desirable that the modern youth must have a “home away from home” when he enters the military camp. The actual war conconditions call for “he” men, sound in body and limb, to endure the rigours of warfare in whatever part of the world he may be called to serve. A bright and happy outlook is also a desirable quality besides good physical condition. Happy and proud should be the man who passes the test. It is from the “joy of living” aspect that the many relaxations are provided. Among the many bodies which endeavour to supply social hours, the Military Canteen occupies a foremost position in the mind of both officers and men. This department is growing into an immense organisation. All the men engaged in the Trentham Canteen are returned soldiers of the 1914-18 campaign; aye, and two who served in the South African War.

The head “scharange” (Len is an ex-officer of the Machine Gun Corps.. His second in command, “Smacker,” is a Military Medallist, both having served on Gallipoli. Sergeant Tim, of the Wet Canteen, rigorously sees that no abuse is made of the privilege granted to the new Army. He is ably supported by his assistants in dispensing Dr. Staples prescription, viz., Charlie, Nick, Bill and Jimmie frae Greenock. Should you be “tee tee,” Harold will provide you with a milk shake, ice cream, ginger ale, or any other soft drink. Tea, coffee and pies are under the personal supervision of Ernie, an upstanding personality from Horowhenua district. The troops need not worry washing their clothes when for 1/- or 2/- they need only hand them into Montie to-day and receive them next day spick and span. This is a good service. Should you require biscuits, tinned fruit, lollies, razor blades, soap, etc., just apply to Vic’s counter and you will receive every attention. The tobacco and cigarette department, not forgetting newspapers, is under the tender care of Bob, alias Michael Joseph. He is the only one who wesyrte specs at his work. On investigation, it will be found he would be horribly upset if he gave change for 6d. instead of 3d. Perhaps his Scottish traits just makes him cautious.

In the near future larger and more modern conditions will be provided.