THE TERRITORIALS

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIV, Issue 239, 9 April 1912, Page 5

THE TERRITORIALS

TRENTIIAM ENCAMPMENT. By Tclegrapk—Press Association. Wellington, Last Night. The first encampment of the sth Regiment of Infantry (Wellington Battalion) is being held at the Trentham ground. The total of all ranks and companies present is G92. There are 150 tents and 11 marquees for the accommodation of the troops. THE FIRST INFANTRY CAMP. Christchiirch, Last Night. General Godley visited the territorial camps at Rangiora, Marshland, and Templeton yesterday. Speaking to the men at Templeton, General Godiey reminded them that they were not only the first infantry regiment of the Canterbury district, but of the Dominion, and, therefore, it behoved them to make themselves the first in reality as well as in name. From what lie saw he had no doubt that they possessed the material to do it, as well as- the goodwill. He hoped they all realised that by the work they were doing they were fitting themselves, not only for the defence of their country, New Zealand, bu-t also that o'f the Empire, in case of need. Neither he nor they wanted to figfht, but it was their duty to -fit themselves to do so, if necessary, and thus render the Dominion safe from foreign invasion.

The Hon. G. W. Russell also addressed the men, and said he was convinced of the necessity for the universal training movement, and what he had seen of the camp confirmed his opinion. It was a grand thing for the country. He would be only too glad, as far as in him lay, to do all in his power to persuade the Government, within the limits o'f due economy, to make the men as happy and comfortable in l camp as possible. The Hon. IT. G. Ell also spoke, anil said that in camp they \vo;iM make friendships which would 'not. be possible in civilian life, and would, develop sucii a sprit of camaraderie and esprit de corps as would remain a most pleasant memory to them all their lives.