DEAD SOLDIERS AND MEMORIAL PLAQUES.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18055, 15 January 1927, Page 8

DEAD SOLDIERS AND MEMORIAL PLAQUES.

Sir,—After the Great War, medals were issued to soldiers who served with the Forces and to the next-of-kin of those who paid the supreme sacrifice. In addition, the New Zealand Government issued documents recording the service of soldiers with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. These medals, etc'., are valued, but probably the gift which is most prized by the next-of-kin of deceased soldiers is the Emblematic Bronze Plaque and ap-propriately-worded Scroll presented by His Majesty’s Government as memorials of those who lost their lives through the war. These were given in respect of all those who died on active service, and on account of all those who died subsequent to the date when the war ended, provided that the death was due to war service, and took place within seven years of January, 1920. My association finds that memorial plaques and scrolls are not issued on account of those soldiers who died subsequent to discharge unless application is made for them by the next-of-kin. It will be noted that the seven years will expire this month, therefore in these circumstances my association will esteem it a favour if you ,will publish this letter as an intimation to all concerned that application for the memorials should be made immediately. Applications can be addressed to me, or if it is preferred, they could be forwarded to Base Records Office, Buckle Street, Wellington, but in every case the full name and the regimental number of the soldier concerned must be given. I shall also be glad if soldiers to whom war medals arc due, and who have not yet received them, will communicate with me. My association takes this opportunity of thanking the Press of the Dominion for its continued interest in the returned soldiers.—l am. etc. S. J. HARRISON. Gen. Secy. R.S.A. of N.Z., Wellington, January 15.