THE “N.Z.E.F. TIMES”

Camp News, Volume 2, Issue 83, 25 July 1941, Page 4

THE “N.Z.E.F. TIMES”

Troops’ Paper Published

In Egypt

FIRST ISSUE ARRIVES

A copy of the first issue of the '•N.Z.E.F. Times,” a four-page weekly newspaper, published in Egypt and distributed free to New Zealand troops, nas been received in the Dominion.

Well written and attractively printed, the paper gives the soldiers the more important news of their homeland as well as covering the aciivities .if" their own 1 organization overseas.

The first issue includes articles deal ing with New Zealand finance, farming and war production, racing and fool ball results, a story about the New Zealand Fighter Squadron, and a re port of’ the annual conference of the Returned Soldiers’ Association

In a special message printed in the paper, > Major-General Freyberg says : 'lt is with great pleasure that J write to wish the first official newspaper of the N.Z.E.F. good luck. The newssheets which have been issued served the purpose for the time being, but the desirability of having our own paper has always been recognized. As we have now been overseas for nearly 18 months, I think the time-has come when we should have a paper which will not only keep us in touch with what is going on at home, but will also cover the activities of the ever-growing organisation which is being built up over here. The New Zealand Division has played its part in two campaigns which were full of incidents worthy of being recorded, and (here is plenty of material there for those who aspire to literary fame. A few weeks ago I wrote a message for quite a famous ■ on temporary— ’Crete News.’ Despite, troubles facing the editorial staff in Crete, ranging from bombs to ’he kidnapping of the sole linotypist in the island, an excellent newspaper was produced on four days during .the battle. I trust our paper will have fewer difficulties to contend with and a longer life.”