RECEPTION TO D.F.M.

Marlborough Express, Volume LXXVI, Issue 245, 17 October 1942, Page 4

RECEPTION TO D.F.M.

FLIGHT-SERGEANT COLEMAN'S RETURN. LAST EVENING'S FUNCTION. Although held too early in the evening to attract the crowd it would otherwise certainly have done, a reception extended at the Services Club last evening by the Mayor (Mr C. T. Smith) to Flight-Sergeant Keith Coleman, D.F.M., of Wairau Valley, made up in enthusiasm for what it lacked in rmmbers. Comrades of the Air Force and Army were represented, and the gathering also comprised many Wairau Valley residents who, as Mr Smith laughingly remarked during the course of his speech, now thought they were the king pins because of the honour that had been brought to that area. Three most hearty cheers and the rendering of musical honours opened the proceedings after the introductioh of the guest of the evening and his parents, Mr and Mrs S. J. Coleman.

Over the past three years, said Mr Smith, they had seen many Marlborough boys march or fly off to fight. Unfortunately, some of them would not come back, but their pleasure was unbounded when one returned to continue to fight- where he was wanted. Mr Smith proceeded to extend the district's most sincere congratulations to Flight-Sergeant Coleman upon the distinction he had won, and remarked that his parents must be particularly proud of • the part he had taken in the great fight. He was still in the Air Force, and was returning to duty that evening. He would take with him the best wishes of all the people of Marlborough. (Applause.) "Two and a-half years ago I didn't forsee this gathering," smilingly remarked Flight-Sergeant Coleman in reply. Referring to his decoration, he confessecl that it had been quite a thrill when he did have a little j luck in some respects. Unfortunately, [ he added, his stay at home had been brief, and he had not had sufficient j time to get round and see all his old I friends. However, he hoped to be able to get back to the district again late^ on, when he could make j amends. Flight-Sergeant Coleman said he was sorry he must disappoint those who were keen to liear stories of overseas experiences, but the regulations forbade. He could only say he was grateful for the great show of friendship extended to him, and for the many gestures to his people while he had been away. He was deeply appreciative of that.