VOLUNTEERING.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2131, 13 July 1907, Page 2

VOLUNTEERING.

There was a very fair muster of the Gisborne Rifles last evening, under Captain Beere, Limits. Mitchell and Coleman. Several recruits have lutolv joined, and the company is pretty well up to its full strength. After routine work at the drill-shed the men were given some appreciated work in the open. Section, halfcompany, and company evolutions were practised in the main thoroughfare, after which firing exercises in extended order were gone through, Ralmerston-road being the locale. Scouts had previously been tip-own out, and the troops shown how to advance in the face of an enemy and open fire, the theory of operating reinforcements being also demonstrated. The non-coms, and tlioso in the ranks showed an intelligent grasp of the officers’ orders. On returning to the drill-hall the company was paraded up, and Captain Beere presented Lieut. IT. Mitchell with a certificate of proficiency, lie having passed his lieutenant’s examination with credit. The commanding officer congratulated Lieut. Mitchell on liis success, which his enthusiasm and diligence merited, and trusted he would long he connected with the destinies of the corps. The captain also remarked that he expected Lieut. Coleman also would soon pass his examination. Lieut. Mitchell, in a modest, manly speech, acknowledged his chief’s words of congratulation, and expressed his pleasure at being associated with the corps, which had always treated him with kindness and consideration. He attributed his successful examination, for the practical part at any rate, to the good material he had had to work upon, the men showing a keen interest in their duties and a soldierly hearing. The recipient was heartily applauded by the corps. Captain Beere next read out the names of those, who had been successful in the non-coms, examination. He urged the non-coms, to take a lively interest in their duties; the fact that two privates took first and third places in the results was rather a reflection upon one or two of the acting men with “stripes.” The captain pointed out that under the regulations at present there is every incentive for men to pass the examinations; any private with sufficient ability' can win a commission in time. The certificate of proficiency was no load to carry, and a man never knew when it would come in useful to him.

Questions were invited, and several of the men were enlightened on points connected with the exams. It was announced that the miniature range in the drill-hall would be in working order next week, when a sweepstake would be contested. The officers urged the men, especially beginners, to take advantage of this method of practice. When the weather settles the Kaiti range will bo sot in readiness for trophv shooting.