FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE

Dominion, Volume 9, Issue 2608, 2 November 1915, Page 2

FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE

A WOMAN HONOURED. An interesting and unique ceremony took place in the Postmaster-General's Boom at the General Post Oflico yesterday morning, when Miss Sarah Brock was presented with tho Imperial Service Medal. The presentation was ma-do by Sir Joseph Ward and a number of officers of the Post and Telegraph Department were present to do honour to their old colleague. Sir Joseph Ward said it was worthy of note that this was the first time on which tho King had bestowed the Imperial Service Medal on a non-clerical officer of the Post and Telegraph Department in New Zealand. Tile distinction was a valued one, and was given only in recognition of long and faithful service. Miss Brock, who was born in Liverpool, England, joined the service in 1875 ; some six or seven years after she arrived from the Old Country. Her first position was cadelte in tho Dispatch Branch, Christehureh, which she retained until 1877, when she was transferred to the Dispatch Branch in tho Telegraph Office, Wellington. Sho remained in that position a. few weeks only, and was then appointed to the Clearing Room in the Acountant's Branch, where she remained until the Supernnuation Act came into force in 1808. Miss Brock w&is one of the first to take advantage of the provisions of that Act, and retired from the service on June 30 of thai year, after having been granted three months' leavo of absence on fii'l pay. Miss Brock had served the Dopartriient for over 33 years, until her failing health compelled her to seek a rest. On behalf of her old colleagues he warmly congratulated her upon receiving the decoration, and wished her many happy yews in which to enjoy the distinction. Mr. W. R- Morris, Secretary to tlio Post and Telegraph Department, and Mr. Ledger both paid high tributes to Miss Brock's work, .and congratulated her upon the recognition she had received. Miss Brock briefly thanked Sir Joseph Ward for his references to herself, and asked him to convey to her old colleagues her appreciation of- their attendance to do her honour.