FAREWELL TO TROOPS

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 4, Issue 307, 19 May 1941, Page 5

FAREWELL TO TROOPS

AWAKERI EVENT

On May 15 a farewell, dance was tendered in the Awakeri Hall to Privates Hi Rae and Rayncr before their departure from the district. A large crowd attended ancl an excellent entertainment ensued. During the evening Mir Claris spoke on behalf of thosie present, wishing the two lads God's speed and a safe return. Mr Claris said that during th?i Great War the New Zealand soldiers had made a splendid name for themselves but to-day that record was being equalled if not surpassed. He felt quite certain that the local boys would do everything in their power to live up to the high ideals set them by their comrades overseas. Privates .Rae and Rayner were then each presented with a useful gift. The former volunteered to deliver a similar gift to Private S. Malaquin, who is spending his leave with his people in Christchurch. Private Rae replied briefly on behalf of the party. Captain C. Thomas, who was present, was given a rousing reception after which he gave a talk dealing with some of his most interesting experiences overseas. He al!so offered some very useful) advice both to the soldiers themselves and to those with boys going or at present overseas. A soldiers' cake kindly donated by Mrs Colin Mac Donald was won by ticket 71 held by Mrs H. W. Taylor who appropriately enough has a son about to proceed overseas.