TOUR OF BATTLEFIELDS.

Shannon News, 20 March 1928, Page 2

TOUR OF BATTLEFIELDS.

EX-SERVICE MEN’S PROJECT. Particulars regarding a proposed Empire pilgrimage to the battlefields ol France and Flanders are contained in a memorandum received from the headquarters of the New Zealand Returned Soldiers’ Association by the secretary of the Levin branch, Mr 11. G. Mackay. The intention is to muster 8000 British ex-service men in Lo?idon during July, to journey through the old war area, terminating with a march through the Meniii Gate Memorial a; Ypres. New Zealand has been requested to endeavour to send a minimum of 100 men. Advice received indirectly from Australia is to the effect that tluCommonwealth is hoping to send 300. From inquiries received at N.Z.E.S.A. headquarters, it. appears that there are many who wish to accompany this delegation. The Association is not* in a position to spend any money on sending ex-service men on a tour of the battlefields of France; therefore the- New Zealand delegation will have to be composed of those who are fortunate enough to be able to, pay their own fares. It has been suggested that tin. delegation should travel to England via Canada, and the Australians may travel with the New Zealanders. Tin Canadian Legion is prepared to arrange entertainment en route. Travel in such manner, by 200 or 300, would mean a reduction in charges, with special conveyances.

It is pointed-out that the delegation will need to reach London by July 20th at the latest, and ex-service men who contemplate making the trip are asked to send their names, numbers and addresses to headquarters. A deposit of £2O will be required as soon as it becomes clear that a delegation can be formed. Preliminary inquiries should be made immediately, and names oi those prepared to join in the delegation should be lodged with headquarters before April 15th.