MEN FOR THE FRONT.

Taranaki Daily News, 16 December 1915, Page 3

MEN FOR THE FRONT.

FAREWELLED AT OKATO. Ever since the outbreak of war men from the Okato district have freely come forward and volunteered to serve their country,- and several have already given their lives for the cause. Ail were accorded farewells of a semi-public nature, but no official public send-off has \been given. Residents of the district have worked hard in the patriotic cause, and last week a meeting was held and a committee was formed to give all future troopers a public farewell. The meeting was hold on Wednesday, and the first official function was held on Friday evening, when, despite the shortness of notice, there was a large and representative attendance. The guests of the evening were Private Eric Andrews (home on final leave) and Messrs Vernon Corbett, Carrol Humphrey, Clyde Putt, Syd Goodin, and Davie Wilson, who were to leave for Trentliam the following Monday. An enjoyable evening 'was spent in dancing, interspersed with a musical programme, whilst cards were provided for non-dancers. Mr. J. L. Power, as M.C., kept the ball moving, and excellent music was provided by Mr. R. B. Bamett, who also played the accompaniments. Dance extras were played by Mrs Burke. The following programme was contributed: Song, "Up From Zummerset," Mrs. song, "Mine's the Best Philosophy," Private Eric Andrews, who gave" as an encore, "True Till Death"; duet, "Larboard Watch," Rev. Addenbrooke and Mr. W. H. Hawkins; humoros recitation, Mrs. Vincent; song, "The Veteran's Song," Mr. W. H. Hawkins;' song, "Down the Vale," Private Eric Andrews. After supper was dispensed by the ladies, the Rev. Addenbrooke presented Private Eric Andrews ' with an illuminated wristlet watch. He remarked that all had a keen appreciation of the courage and heroism of their comrades who had already gone to the front, and they knew that those now going would do their duly also. He intimated that it was intended to make a similar presentation to all the men that left the district for the front, on the occasion of their final leave. Private Andrews briefly responded. The audience then gave the customary three cheers, and joined in singing the National Anthems of Great Britain, Russia, and France.