THOSE OTHERS

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 6, Issue 91, 20 July 1943, Page 5

THOSE OTHERS

MEN WHO WILL NOT RETURN SATURDAY'S REFERENCES The civic welcome to the men on leave last Saturday was not without its more 1 poignant aspect and 1 reference by several speakersi to those men who gave theii* all in. the great conflict for freedom and the right to independent living brought with them sadder memories in the mid'st of the general rejoicing. "When we farewelled you, we wished you all God-speed and a safe return," said Mr B. S. Barry. "Today there are some whom Ave know will not be returning and we know that our wishes cannot be. fulfilled. But to us, they are standing beside you to-day as tlicy did when we bid you au revoir." Mr J. L. Burnett: "Our sympathy to-day goes out to those who in their grief and sadness recall those relatives who have, made the supreme sacrifice. Their sacrifice was part of the gfeat price which had to be paid." Chief Keepa Tawhio: "Although we are full 1 of joy for your safe return, there is a sadness with us which is because we are missing many faces' amongst you. That, we know avc cannot help. Every Maori Avhen he goes into battle does not expect to return and the fact that you have returned, is a double joy to us." Col. Frank Prideaux: "Lastly there are those good felloAvs Avho will not be coming home. We feel, Avith regard to them that avc have left behind the finest of our ranks." '