R.S.A. REUNION

Chronicle (Levin), 4 November 1946, Page 2

R.S.A. REUNION

HAPPY, ANNUAL FUNCTION The annual reunion of the Qtaki branch of the R.S.A. took place at Raukawa on Saturday night, when there was a large gathering eomprised of men from both wars. There were many visitors, including a large contingent from Levin. Apologies were tendered for absence on behalf of nursing Sisters who had graced all such previous functions. General R. Young, president'of the Otaki R.S.A. , presided and was supported by the Mayors of Otaki and Levin (Messrs. C. F. Atmore and H. B. Burdekinf , Messrs. P. H. G. Bennett (Waikanai) and Hudson (Levin) . The tables were weil laden with edibles. General Young, in his opening remarks, after the singing of "God Save the King," expressed pleasure at seeing such a large number present, and hoped all would have a happy evening and carry away pleasant recollection of the gathering. Levin representatives were heartily welcomed, after which he apologised for the nursing Sisters, five in all, who had sent apologies for their non-attendance. General Young regretted their absence. An apology was also tendered on behalf of Mr. L. G. Lowry, wno was still in hospital in Rotorua, and others who were unable to be present. It was mentioned that members of the Tin Hat Club, of Wellington, were in attendance and during the evening would enliven proceedings. The toast, "Absent Friends," was then proposed by General Young. Mr. Townrow sang "The Requiem," while Mr. Pat Ferguson sounded. the "Last Post" and "Reveille." General Young then reniinded all that' November 10 had been set apart as a day of remembrance, and it was the wish of the padre that all attend divine service. Canon Fry also asked that all remember the day, and reminded them that the service would commence at 10.45 a.m. Mr. P. H. G. Bennett then proposed the toast oi "The Local R.S.A.," and in doing so stated that this association, in common with other similar associations, was anxious. to help any returned man. All were working in harmony, and without such no one would get far. He instanced how„ General Freyberg had attended a meeting and expressed his desire to see such bodies progress. Mr. Bennett stated that it was also pleasing to know Ihat the Home Servicemen's Association was in co-operation and doing good work. He stated that there was a lot of work to do, and, therefore, it was desired that unity be uppermost. By such much could be accomplished and each would be able to help the other. Mr. Burdekin, vice-president of the Levin Association, in reply, first of all took the opportunity of thanking the Otaki Association for its invitation to be present, and

then offered congratulations on the splendid evcning's entertainment. He o@nsider«Ji6fehoi®iakb Association a live body, ' and one that was accomplishing fine work. He -also pointed out the good that could be done by such associations, e,specially the lielp that could be given to those deserving it. The R.S.A. poiicy was to help, and it would do its best to avoid iurther wars. They must see that thc Government did its duty and demand a force that would stand to associations. "The Fighting Services" was a toast ably proposed by Mr. Atmore, who rcferred to the magnificent services of the fighting forces, and of the fine co-opeiation of all branches, and of that between the British and Americans. Mr. Atmore spoke of the fine work done by the Maoris.

Mr. Heath Simcox, in speaking on behalf of the.navy, said it had to be admitted that they had done good work, while Mr. Chap. Bills, on behalf of the army, made pleasing reference to its qualities. It was his desire, he said, to see a charter established whereby all could meet and engage in social intercourse. Mr. Joe Garrity spoke on behalf of the air force, mentioning the outstanding achievements which had been accomplished, while Captain Brown, after speaking on behalf' of the Maori Battalion, rendered a song, the usual thing, he said, for the Maori to do after making a speech. All heartily joined in the singing. Mr. Martin Simcox spoke on behalf of veterans of the South African war. At this stage the electric light failed, and most of the remainder of the evening was spent in semidarkness. Mr. Edhouse proposed the toast of "The Visitors" and extended to them a very hearty welcome, trusting that the evening would prove an enjoyable one. Mr. Hudson, of Levin, in responding, stated that it was a pleasure to attend such functions and assured the R.S.A. members o£ Otaki that the visitors had enjoyed the outing.

Mr. Jock Macleod, in proposing the health of "The Entertainers," spoke eulogistically of the items rendered, and which had assisted in making the evening so enjoyable. Mr. Les. Morris replied, stating -that it was always a pleasure to attend Otaki functions. He and his companions had been coming to Otaki for years and had always spent enjoyable times. Mr. Townrow proposed the- toast of "The Press," Mr. Nicolson rbplying, after which Mr. Joe Garrity, carrying on as chainnan after the retirement of the president, made mention of the old veterans of the first war, adding that their sons had served in the last* war. 'Mr Jepson replied, after which all indulged in singing. The items rendered during the evening were fully appreciated, and it was a happy gathering that disbanded at midnight after the singing of "Auld Lang Syne."