RETURNED SOLDIERS’ REUNION.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 3782, 21 April 1928, Page 2

RETURNED SOLDIERS’ REUNION.

A SUCCESSFUL GATHERING.

The third annual re-union of the Poxton and district returned soldiers was held in the Masonic Hall on Thursday evening, when 70 relumed men foregathered and spent a most enjoyable social time. The interior of the hall was brightened with bunting and the tables were nicely decorated and fairly groaned with the good things provided. Captain Yeo, chairman of the local committee, presided and seated on his right and left were Messrs J. Linklater, M.P., and the Mayor (Mr. M. E. Perreau). After the loyal toast had been honoured a vote of sympathy with the relatives of the late Major W. Hardham, V.C., was carried in silence.

i The toasts of the “Old Brigades and Kindred Units” was in the capable hands of Mr. Bergin, who intermingled humour with serious incidents connected with the Great War. In looking back, he said, memories of pride and sorrow were blended. Would that those who went out on the great adventure could return and join in such re-unions. All sections vied with each other in doing their best and collectively they made up the army whose heroism was emblazoned on the page of history. In civilian life they should continue kindly and honourable feelings towards each other and maintain the spirit of .comradeship which existed at the front.

Messrs McPhail (Wellington Battalilpn), Scott ((Canterbury), .Roberts (Otago), Yeo (Rifle Brigade), S. Austin (Air Force), J. Robertson (Mounteds), PI. Hughes (Artillery), E. Bryant - (A.S.C.), 'W. Mounsey (“Aussies”), Fursdon (Imperial forces), Wakefield (engineers), J. Bell (“Old Contemplibles”), Mason (naval air force)) responded. Mr. W. Trueman jDroposed the toast of the “South African Veterans.” He said much had been learnt from the South African campaign. The same spirit of \alour animated the men in the South African Wlar as in the Great War. That same spirit of service and sacrifice would inspire posterity. He referred to the work of the League of Nations and said that peace would rule the day when reason ruled the mind.

Mr. J. Linklater, M.P., in responding, said he was “beginning to feel an old beggar.” That night’s gathering brought back memories of similar festive gatherings which were held on the “Cornwall,” which carried the .contingent with which he served to South Africa. The South African cam-< paign was not a picnic and as a previous speaker had said lessons had been learnt there which had been useful in the great waff. Such gatherings made them forget that they were grorving old and he hoped they would stick together and meet each year round the festive board and cement the bond of comradeship through life. Three cheers were lustily given for the Sbuth African Veterans.

Mr. Scott in proposing thg toast of “the chairman (Captain Yeo),” said to him must be given the credit for bringing the men together. He had taken a keen interest in the returned men of the district, and his object was not only to foster the spirit of comradeship, but to see that Anzac Day was fittingly celebrated. He also referred to his efforts in connection with the children’s Christmas party. He had been the moving spirit in these matters. He regretted to say that Captain Yeo was shortly to leave them,.and his departure would create a gap in their midst, which would be difficult- to fill. Their best wishes would, however, go with him. He then asked Mr. Yeo to accept a tobacco pouch and pipe as a token of esteem. (Applause).

Mr. Fursdon endorsed Mr. Scott’s remarks and hoped there would be a big muster, on Anzac Day, not only as a tribute to the memory of their fallen comrades, but also as a fitting send-off to Captain Yeo. i Mr. Yeo in rising to respond, was greeted with a salvo of applause. He thanked them for the token of esteem. He hoped that the spirit of comradeship would continue and be kept alive by annual re-unions. If they were animated by this spirit the community would be benefitted. So far as Anzac Day was concerned they owed something to the memory of their departed comrades, and if they were slack it would have a disheartening effect upon the public. So far as his departure was concerned, he said no one was indispensible, and if they pulled together things would go on alright. He would do his best to attend future re-unions in Foxton (applause). Mr. J. Linklater, M.P., proposed the toast of “Foxton and District.” He said he. believed there was a good future before the town and district. The hemp industry aided by scientific research would increase both demand and output and benefit both employer and employee. He hoped waste areas would be placed under cultivation. He, referred to the possibilities of the local seaside resort which was growing in popularity. Afforestation of sandy wastes along the coast would increase prosperity. In his opinion the town and district would continue to prosper. Mr. Linklater also touched upon other matters which are reported elsewhere. Mr. Perreau in responding, took

occasion to pay a tribute to the Returned Soldiers’ Committee for the active interest they took in local affairs. Other toasts were the “Press,” “Absent Comrades” and the “Committee.”

During the evening much appreciated items were contributed by Messrs G. F. Smith, D. R. Barron, B. Hinds interspersed with well-known choruses in which all eluded a happy re-union. Mr. J. Newton at the piano and Mr. Corn (violin).