MAORI BATTALION

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20084, 2 November 1939, Page 7

MAORI BATTALION

RECRUITING PERIOD INDEFINITE EXTENSION SOME EUROPEAN OFFICERS SELECTION OF NATIVES (IVr 'Press; Association.) WELLINGTON, this day. "It has been decided that recruiting for the Maori battalion will be continued tiil further notice, and that the date of entry into camp of the main body of the battalion will not be until the New Year, approximately January 18.

Up to noon yesterday the enlistments were. 917, including northern district 604, central 294, and southern

Army officers have been instructed to make arrangements for medical boards and travelling boards to be used if this is cheaper than assembling the men.

The Maoris, who have registered for the Special Force and are still in the areas, will be treated as recruits for the Maori battalion Men who have already been medically examined and classed as fit or permanently unfit will not be re-examined. Fit men only will be attested.

A small number of European officers Will be appointed to the battalion. Areas have been instructed to forward the names and particulars of any officers willing to serve and who are considered suitable for appointments such as quarter-master and O.C. company. Particulars are also to be supplied as to rank, age, conjugal condition and dependants of any Maori officers or ex-officers who volunteer and are passed as medically fit.

Maoris now in camp with the Special Force, as well as those in areas, who have passed as medically fit, will be given equal consideration when the selection is made. Selected officers, both European and Maori and prospective officers and N.C.O's. will be despatched so as to arrive at Trentham on November 26 for training at the Army School.