CASUALTIES IN N.Z.

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 5, Issue 64, 12 June 1942, Page 5

CASUALTIES IN N.Z.

OVERSEAS SOLDIERS' REQUEST

NEXT-OF-KIN URGED TO I CARRY

IDENTIFICATION CARDS

The Minister of Defence, the Hon. F. Jones, stated on Thursday that a request had, been received from the 2nd N.Z.E.F. in the Middle East asking that next-of-kin or other close relatives in New Zealand of soldiers serving overseas should at all times carrj- a card or other document containing sufficient paticulars to enable soldiers to. be notified if their next-of-kin or relatives were killed or injured as the result of enemy action in the Dominion.

"A scheme of this kind is in force In Britain," said Mr Jones, "and it is evident that the introduction of a similar scheme in this country Avill help considerably to relieve the natural anxiety of New Zealanders serving abroad for the welfare of their relatives in the Dominion should New Zealand become a scene of active hostilities.

"Although the request was received from the 2nd N.Z.E.F., the Government feels that the scheme should apply generally to next-of-kin members of all the three fighting services. I therefore appeal to all next-of-kin and other close relatives of members of the navy, army and air force serving overseas to carry a suitable card or othef document at all times.

"This card should be strong, durable material and should contain the full name, address and relationship of the next-of-kin and the number, rank, full name, unit and address of the member or members of the forces to whom it is desired that a message should be sent.

"The natural anxiety, felt by members of the forces avlio are serving overseas that steps should be taken to ensure that they may receive accurate and prompt information in circumstances which I have mentioned will readily be appreciated," added the Minister, "and 1 fee) sure that the appeal will meet with aa immediate response."