RESERVIST’S DILEMMA.

Taihape Daily Times, 27 September 1918, Page 5

RESERVIST’S DILEMMA.

FORMERLY CLASSED UNFIT. NOW ORDERED INTO CAMP. A case possessing unusual and puzzling features came before the Military Service ■ Board at Auckland on Tuesday, when the adjourned appeal of John A. G. Fleming (Mr. Inder), a Cl reservist, was reconsidered. ' : At a previous hearing evidence was given to the effect that Fleming sold his farm, tried to enlist several times, was later on drawn in a hallot, was classed C2, and received instruction that he would not have to go into camp. On the strength of this information, and the opinion expressed by a high medical authority that he would not be fit for service, owing to an injury to his knee, he undertook finally the purchase of properties which carried heavy financial liabilities. Subsequently he'was classed Cl, and was now under orders to pro iced to camp. Appellant considered that to have to go into camp now that he had undertaken these iinacial responsibilities would be a severe hardship, as he previously had effort to get away. He was quite prepared, however, to dispose of his properties if this could be managed. The chairman suggested that Fleming might go into camp for a short period, leaving someone to manage his farms, and then, later on, if he was found fit, the board would be quite willing to allow generous leave in order that he might dispose of them. Appellant: I would be quite willing to sell out, but I have not met anyone to whom I would care to leave my properties and stock for three months. Mr. Pine: A reliable medical authority has said you would not stand the training. It is most probable that after re-examination at camp, you will very soon be put out. The board was quite agreed that the case was an extremely hard one to deal with. The chairman, in giving a decision finally, said that the board was prepared to grant ample extension of time, in order that appellant might sell out, but the most sensible course would be for him to go to camp for a short period, and leave someone in charge. If found fit, he would be allowed time to complete arrangements. On the suggestion of counsel, the board agreed to allow the case to stand down until October 2, in order that appellant might consider thoroughly which course he would adopt.