CEREMONIAL PARADE SUGGESTED

Dominion, Volume 35, Issue 291, 7 September 1942, Page 4

CEREMONIAL PARADE SUGGESTED

American Servicemen CHANCE FOR WELCOME BY CITIZENS

A suggestion that a ceremonial parade of American armed forces should be arranged to give New Zealanders an opportunity of welcoming them has been made by the chairman of. the New Zealand-America Friendship Group, Major J. R. Kirk, M.B.E. "Now that one may mention the fact that American servicemen are in the Dominion I can say that hundreds of them have been welcomed in the homes of Wellington citizens,” he said in an interview on -Saturday. He had met each ship immediately on its arrival and, on behalf of the Wellington Patriotic Committee, had welcomed the officers and men and informed them of the provision that had been made for hospitality. The Friendship Group greatly appreciated the interest ofcitizens and tlie help they had given. Latelv the bureau had not had much to do as the visitors had made so many friends. “Though there are naturally some lads who are homesick, I do not think there are any who are lonely,” said Major Kirk. Many people were unable to offer hospitality in their homes, but desired to honour the men who had come to help, and, if a ceremonial parade could be arranged, they would be able tq salute -the Stars and Stripes and the men marching behind it and show by their cheers how warm was their welcome. In London recently such a march was made to the historic Guildhall, where the mayor entertained the men on behalf of the city. Unfortunately, the Wellington Town Hall was no longer available, but from its steps the mayor could take the salute, and an American home dinner could -be served in the Allied -Services Club. Probably a similar march would be held in Auckland, but if it were decided that in Wellington something more than a local welcome should be extended, the importance of the occasion would be enhanced if the Gover-nor-General'Attended and took the salute. “The demonstration would set the seal on the justifiable reputation of this city for hospitality, and would show that we are not only constant but also enthusiastic in our endeavours toward victory,” said Major Kirk.