THE O.B.E. AND Y.M.C.A.

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 228, 20 June 1919, Page 8

THE 0.8. E. AND Y.M.C.A.

Sir—One regrets that by an evident unjust distribution of the above distinction it should have been brought almost into disrepute and the subject of much criticism. Some have earned it; many who could not go to the front undoubtedly deserve recognition for services rendered in the Dominion. But'from Now Zealand the.ro has gone out a body of men many of whom, if bravery counts for anything, are well entitled to a Sf.C. and not a few the V.C. I refer to the Y.Jr.C.A. field secretaries. Now these men, because they arc not enrolled as members of the N.Z.E.F., are debarred from' receiving military distinction, yet tho work of such men as J. L. Hay, Blair, and others warrants distinction of a very high order. J. L. Hay has earned his title for service abroad, A. Yarney for service at home and abroad; but one hopes that if there are further non-mili-tary decorations to. be distributed other Y.M.C.A. secretaries will receive a well merited but by.no means sought for reward for services rendered. —I am, etc., R. B. GOSNELL. Greytown, June 17, 1919.