THAMES BIFLE RANGERS.

Thames Star, Volume XI, Issue 3629, 13 August 1880, Page 2

THAMES BIFLE RANGERS.

This corps, the only Shortland volunteer company! was inspected last night by Major Withers, when the number on parade—7B of all ranks—showed that the esprit de corps was as dominant as in the first days of Thames volunteering. The enrolled strength of the band and company is at present 115, and the 37 who were absent from parade had leave, or were temporarily from the district on private business. The corps was drawn up at open order—two long lines of brilliantly clad, stalwart fellows; the g neral effect was not marred by the presence of men in civilian costume, which often spoils the tout ensemble o! & volunteer parade There was a large number of visitors present to witness the inspection. This in itself is somewhat annoying in one sense to volunteers who have none too much space at their disposal. On the arrival of Major Withers, the usual salute was given and acknowledged, and a minute inspection of the arms, clothing, and appointments followed. The roll having been called; the manual and firing exercises followed, under Lieut. Douglas. Captain Far re 11 also put the men through several manoeuvre*, the whole of which appeared to be performed in our uninitiated judgment, with wonderful precision and celerity. Prize- winners were called forward, and presented by Mijor Withers with the trophies of their skill at the butts, in the following order ■:— Volunteer Downie. Ist prize, presented by Captain Howe, N.Z.M., together with an additional prize from Mr Tetley of Sbortland; Volunteer McKee, 2nd prize, presented by Mr Jno. Neal, of Grahams- j town; Volunteer Buckley, 3rd prize, donated by Mr Forgie j Volunteer T. Fenk, 4th prize, .given by Mr George McCaul; Bandmaster Kelisall, sth prize, from Mr Wright; Corporal Buckley, 6th prize, from Mr Mcßoberts; Vol. JR. Penk, 7th prize, from Mr Wight. The prize men having resumed the stations, the gallant Major addressed the company, expressing the great satisfaction it had been to him to see that the corps kept up its high reputation for shooting efficiency, and smartness at drill. He had been much pleased with the appearance of the men. The officers present, besides Major Withers were—Major Murray, Lieut.* Instructor Grant, Captain Farrell (in command), Lieuts. Douglas and Xitching.