ENLISTED FOR RUSSIA

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIV, Issue 10295, 2 June 1919, Page 5

ENLISTED FOR RUSSIA

150 AUSTRALIANS VOLUNTEER

MOVED BY SPIRIT OF ADVEN-

TUKJfi

Australian and X.Z. Cable Association

(Received Juno 1, 6.3 p.m.) LONDON, May 30.

The Australian Press Association [learn* that 160 Australian*, mostly infantry, have enlisted to go to Russia. All were demobilised during the past fortnight. Australian Headquarters discourages enlistment of Australians having dependents in England and refuses leave to Australians having dependents in Australia. Mostly the men arc between twenty and thirtythree years of age, and arc mainly moved by a spirit of adventure. Several after being recruited by British officers refused to attest on learning that they would not bo permitted to wear Aust-nlnm uniform nor be placed in a definite Australian unit. No members of the Australian Flying Corps have enlisted.

Brfgtrfler Davies, of lue Eighth Brigade, comjnands tho British battalion. The men are mostly enlisting in twos and threes, seldom singly. Major Wark and Captain Moon, each holding the Victoria Cross, are seeking to enlist, but their comrades are endeavouring to dissuade them. The men receive half deferred pay if they uelist for a (ear. The "War Office pays their return o Australia. Further enlistments are unlikely.