Official Farewell Function

Camp News, Volume 1, Issue 5, 12 January 1940, Page 7

Official Farewell Function

At Exhibition

FIRST ECHELON ENTERTAINED.

Soldiers crowed the Exhibition Cabaret on December 22nd, at a dance given in their honour by the Metropolitan Patriotic Committee. It was the official farewell social function for men of the first New Zealand echelon, and though most of the soldiers were Wellingtonians, there was a sprinkling of representatives from other districts who were spending their final leave in the capital.

The Union Jack and New Zealand’s own flag flanked the orchestral shell, and a large Christmas tree in a silver stand was set in the centre of the dance floor. Other decorations were not necessary, for the uniforms of the guests of honour lent a sufficiently varied and patriotic note. Although the dance was officially given only for men of the Special Force,, towards the end of the evening the blue Air Force uniform and the black and white of the Navy were conspicuous in the throng.

Mr. J. W. Andrews, Mayor of Lower Hutt, welcomed the men, and Councillor Martin Luckie read a telegram of good wishes and congratulations from the Mayor, who was unable to attend. “You carry with you our best wishes,” Mr. Luckie said. “The debt of gratitude you leave on the shoulders of those in Wellington who are left behind will never be taken off your sacrifice has not been made in vain.” When the speaker called for cheers for the men it seemed strange, but was typical of the times, to hear ; feminine voices raised in response. The Metropolitan Committee was assisted by the executives of the Official Camp Entertainers and the A.N.A. Club in entertaining the guests.