SENIOR CADET TRAINING.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXII, Issue 4348, 28 November 1921, Page 2

SENIOR CADET TRAINING.

«It is recognised that no movement that possesses a purely military purpose is' likely. to prove a success in the Dominion, since it is exactly this military domination that we have been fighting against Germany. The purpose, therefore, of this Cadet system is to produce good citizens firstly, rather than good soldiers. But there are two sides to citizenship, one of which certainly is the preparation and capacity to defend the Dominion by force of arms should the need arise. Citizenship, not militarism, :s, therefore, the real aim of the Senior Cadet Force. The greatest opponent of military service will agree that strength of character, a healthy mind and body, pride in personal appearance, punctuality, respect for authority, and high ideals are valuable assets both to the young men and to the country, which claims such men for its citizens. The Senior Cadet training is endeavouring to provide the opportunity for rich and poor, strong and weak, to secure and strengthen these qualities, and whether or not these endeavours will prove successful depends upon the assistance and’ encouragement given to the Cadets by the citizens generally. With the . foregoing aims in view, a programme of training is being carried out by the Defence authorities, and we are seeing the effects of this scheme in the smart and neat appearance of the local cadets proceeding to parade on Tuesday nights. .It will be of interest to many citizens to be acquainted with this programme. Among the . many subjects being taught our cadets are : Discipline, drill, • musketry, physical and recreational training, etc. On every drill night a lecture is given on one of the following subjects : Physical fitness and efficiency, self-control and hygiene, punctuality and pride in self, care of teeth, esprit de corps, the- evils • of. drinking, smoking, and swearing, patriotism and citizenship, sanitation, etc.

Citizens are always welcoms to attend at the Drill Hall on drill nighfs, in order to observe what is being done for our boys’ benefit. These visits by citizens also have a valuable moral effect on the cadets, for experience teaches us that young men do better when interest in their work is displayed by and “civies” generally. Numerous simple competitions are' periodically held, such as a prize for the lad scoring the most points for cleanliness and general appearance for a stated period.