SANDBAG DEFENCES.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXVII, Issue 1477, 25 November 1915, Page 4

SANDBAG DEFENCES.

In the opinion of some of the returned wounded soldiers, lives would have been saved had there been enough sandbags in the firing line. These bags appear to have been forgotten in some engagements and had the men bad them they would have Jaeen able to rapidly fill them on the spot and so protected themselved to some extent from the hail of bullets. There are plenty such bags available here if they are wanted. Cement bags, for instance, will be useless for their usually floury fine contents alter the third packing, but they are then quite suitable for military purposes. If the Government really wants these bags it ought to obtain plenty, for it has had some 4000 bags of cement out at Tauherenikau, 3000 at Trentbam, and if the bags have not been returned empty, they should be available. Users of cement in large quantities return the bags and are allowed for all In good condition, but those which are not will do for defence work. The farmer with basic slag bags to spare can also help iu this way. What is wanted appears to be a properly organised system ot local collection and a central receiving depot. Australia is collecting its million sandbags privately. If the Defence Department gives the lead it is thought by those handling the cement and other goods in small bags that there should be no difficulty In obtaining many thousands of bags quite suitable lor trench and other defence works at the front.