TRAINING THEM.

Dominion, Volume 5, Issue 1467, 15 June 1912, Page 3

TRAINING THEM.

SERGEANT INSTRUCTORS AT TRENTHAM. A week ago to-day the GO odd probationers selected lor appointment as sergeant-in-structora additional to tho number appointed and trained at Tauherenikau in the autumn months of 1911 to assist with the inauguration of the new defence scheme, went into camp at Trentham for a course .of instruction practically similar to that prescribed for the Tauherenikau camp. Those in camp had what was practically their fir<(t fine day yesterday, aa regards weather, and thoroughly appreciated the sunshine. A camp in v inter is not quite such a cheerful spectacle as tho same camp in summer, when the rows of white tents, dazzling in the strong sunlight, make a pretty picture against the gieen background of tiees. In winter the long slanting rays of (he winter sun cast gloomy shadows; the grass is dead—and looks" it—and even the white tents appear to partake of the general air of departed glory, which is one of tho gloomy attributes of winter scenery. However, despite the fact that thoy are camping in the depth of winter, the men appear to bo quite comfortable and happy. .Besides the probationers, there are in training the boys selected for the J\cw. Zealand contingent to Canada. Several Staff.sorgoant-instructjrs are attached to the camp a3 instructors for those who,are learning to instruct. The camp is under the supervision of Captain G. C. Hamilton (Instructor in Infantry Duties), who is assisted by Captain Crutchley Salmonson. The days are spent under instruction, in squad drill, rifle exercises, aiming and firing, and other elementary tranches of field work, while the evenings aro given up to lectures. As to quarters, accommodation for most of them has been found in the jockey quarters in the racecourse grounds adjoining the rille range, while the overflow has been quartered in tents. Major-General Godley (General Officer Commanding the I'orccs), accompanied by Lieutenant-Colonel Kriox (QuartermasterGeneral), paid a visit of inspection to the camp yesterday, and the men were complimented on their smart.appearance. The general reminded them that their appointments were probationary until they qualified for permanent appointment, and that seniority would be determined by the quality of, the work done at the examinations. .-.■:.

The General also inspected the cadets and addressed a few encouraging remarks to them.

Next. week the ifiimber in camp -will be augmented by about 200 Territorial officers nnd non-cominissioned officers, who are coming from all parts for instruction in infantry duties. .