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Hokitika Guardian, 6 November 1929, Page 4

Tbe recent visit of the members of me Christchurch Returned Soldiers’ Association Should assist in stimulating interest in the local branch. The few words which Mr Hayden addressed to the assemblage on Saturday night 'should carry weight with those who may have been indifferent in the past as to their duty and obligations in this matter. The comradeship of 191418, was a very intimate one, and having shared the perils and dangers of that eventful period, the bond of interest and even of affection one to the other might be preserved in the desire to see that all might be fairly treated in the future race of life. Many suffered in the war period, and are not as capable as fit men to endure peace conditions. The men in active association can and are doing much to help those who are suffering. The active organisations have raised thousands of pounds towards providing employment for the needy comrade. The Associations have helped greatly where disabled men were involved. This is humanitarian work which should not be shirked. The close comradeship of the past is a pleasant memory to many, and it can best lie expressed now by displaying a desire to afford mutual help to those old mates who may need it. There was a period when the returned soldiers’ organisation flagged greatly, but that time appears to have passed and active organisations in the larger centres are doing a good work for their comrades wherever they may be residing. The present Commission sitting in regard to helping disabled men is the result of the agitation maintained by the organisation of the re-

turned mien. Those who need help in that category are in a fair way to receive it. It was mentioned on iSaturday that any local cases should he brought to the notice of the authorities, and every case would he investigated on its merits and he dealt with fairly. The maintenance of an .Association is a good thing for the men themselves, for united and working in groups for their fellows they will he doing something which w.ll he lor their own betterment and those about tnem. It is certainly an honour to wear the returned soldiers’ badge, and membership gives that honour. It is a distinctive badge and is the stamp ol good citizenship and worthy service for the country in the time of need. The rvar period is passing with the years, and there are many who may be forgetting and some growing into mature years who did not know, but the soidiers’ badge is a reminder and recalls memories of the spendid service given bv tlio.e entitled to wear it.