BEST CADET CORPS

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 204, 17 November 1927, Page 18

BEST CADET CORPS

PRAISE FOR MAORI BOYS ST. STEPHEN’S COLLEGE COMPETITION “If you keep on trying as you are doing you will be the best cadet corps between the North Cape and the Bluff!" The boys of St. Stephen’s School at Parnell received this enconium from Major Finnis at the conclusion of their sectional drill competition yesterday afternoon. The inspection was carried out at the school by Major Finnis, who was accompanied by Lieutenant Judson, V.C. Lieutenant Patrick Smith was in command of the parade. ‘‘There is no doubt about the fact that each cadet is a trier,” said Major Finnis when addressing the lads, who were representative of all the divisions of the Polynesian race—the drummer, for ihstance, was an exceedingly hefty young Samoan—"and it is such trying that makes St. Stephen’s cadet corps such an efficient one.” He Informed Lieutenant Judson during the competition that it would be a pleasure to take these boys, after a month's training in camp, to any part of New Zealand and show the people what could be achieved in military work. “I congratulate every boy on the splendid work,” said Major Finnis. “Your drill is the best I have seen for a very long time.” The competition was judged on neatness, words of command, rifle exercises, squad drill in two ranks, and extended order. The section commanders controlled the work of their respective sections. Results were: No. 2 section (Sergt. Miki Maher) 1 No. 1 section (Sergt. William Hohepa) .. 2 No. 4 section (Sergt. Baula Vea) .. 3 No. 3 section (Sergt. Taualai Tafunai) 4 The boys are now keenly- looking forward to their annual sports, which will take place on the school grounds on Saturday, November 26.