PRESENTATION TO WAR CORRESPONDENT

Dominion, Volume 33, Issue 184, 1 May 1940, Page 10

PRESENTATION TO WAR CORRESPONDENT

Journalists’ Tribute

A wrist, watch from New Zealand journalists was presented yesterday to Mr. J. 11. Hall, who has been appointed official war correspondent with tlie Second New Zealand Expeditionary Force. Tlie representative gathering included the .Minister of Industries and Commerce. Mr. Sullivan, an old journalistic colleague of Mr. Hall, both having been associated as reporters in earlier years. Tlie respect in winch Mr. Hali is held was evident from the fact that it. was the largest gathering of Wellington journalists ever held. JoiiT'-'ists were also present from Wanganui. Palmerston North and Hastings. The presentation was made by tlie president of tlie New Zealand Journalists’ Association, Mr. A. A. Hardcastle, on behalf of the journalists of New Zealand, who bad subserilied to the gift. He congratulated Mr. Hall on his appointment, and wished him success overseas and a speedy and safe return to New Zealand. It was. he added, a popular appointment, and tlie whole weight, of journalistic opinion was that no one was better equipped for the task to which lie had been appointed than was Mr. Hall. . . (Mr Sullivan stiid that since tlie ait noiitieement of Mr. Hall's appointment those best qualified to judge had expressed the opinion that a good, appointment had been made. Irotu metropolitan newspapermen lie had heard nothing but complimentary remarks about Mr. Hail's Mollifications and the wisdom of Ute Government in selecting hint. Because of their association of the old days and the high regard in which be held him. he was very proud when tlie Government decided to appoint Mr. Hall. "Throughout the years he has held the respect of all with whom he has come in contact." said Mr. Sullivaii. A tribute was also paid to Mr. Hall by the Director of Publicity, Mr. J. T. I’aui. Before receiving bis appointment. as war correspondent. Mr. Hall was deputy to .Mr. Paul, who spoke of the high regard in which Mr. Hall was held by his fellowmen.

Mr. Hall, who was greeted with prolonged applause, said it was no use denying that he was thrilled to get the job as war correspondent. However, he realized it was going to l>c a hard job. Though his contribution to the 'Empire’s cause would not be equal to tliat of the humblest soldier in the front, line, he was proud to be going overseas with the men. and lie hoped to be able to interpret some of their spirit to tlie people of New Zealand. "I hope I shall not let our craft down,” said Mr. Hail in conclusion* The watch bore the following inscription: "J. 11. Hall, official correspondent, 2nd N.Z.E.F., from New Zealand fellow journalists, 30-4-40.”