AWAKERI FUNCTION

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 08, Issue 93, 27 July 1945, Page 7

AWAKERI FUNCTION

WELCOME HOME DANCE

A largo crowd gathered in the Awakeri Hall recently for a Welcome Home Dance organised for live of the district's returned men. They were S/L(lr H. Carter, Ptes G. Sutton J. Butler A. Wiggins, and L. Nalder. The music was supplied by the Waimana Band and the duties of M.C. Ave re carried out by Mr C. Macdonald. After supper IVIr L. Luxton i on behalf of those present welcomed the boys and presented each with an envelope containing a cheque. Mr Luxton said that the settlers in thedistrict were very proud of the distinction Avon by S/Ldr Carter who had been awarded the D.F.C. and they Avere prouder still that one who had taken such an active part in the hostilities was iioav safely returned to his home, to become a settler in the Awakeri district. Privates G. Sutton J. Butler and A. 9 Wiggins were all returned prisoners of war while. Pte I>. Nalder had •5 been aAvay from the country for three years.

Mr Luxton mentioned that Pte J. Butler had seen five years' service, three years of 'which he had been a prisoner while Privates G. Sutton and A. Wiggins had both been prisoners of Avar lor two years. This was the first time the district had had the opportunity to welcome boys who had returned l'rom being prisoners of war and to welcome so

many returned men in one batch. It indeed spoke well for the progress of the war and it was gratify--ing to see such a large crowd turn out to do them honour. The gathering then joined in the singing of "For They Are Jolly Good Fellows." S/Ldr Carter suitably replied to Mr Luxton's remarks; thanking all friends for the donation and good spirit of the welcome. Pte Butler then spoke on behalf of the three men who had been prisoners of war. The help they had received from the Red Cro6s ? contribuetd largely to

the fact that tihey were now safe, fit ami well and the soldiers were all aware t>f the generous support that was accorded the patriotic orgr animations by all theh* friends and people at home in order that this work could be carried out. He said they were pleased to have the opportunity to express their opinion. Mr Luxton said an apology was received from Pte Dodunski who had been invited to attend this night but was detained in Auc'kland for medical attention. The second heat of the £5 Monte Carlo was won by Mr Mush and Miss I. Bryant. A novelty Monte Carlo was won by Mr E. Walker and Miss B. Butler while a competition for a supper cloth, proceeds in aid of the patriotic fund ? which had been donated by Mrs A. Martin was won by Miss E. Boulcott.