GREYTOWN

Wairarapa Times-Age, 18 December 1939, Page 9

GREYTOWN

SOLDIER FAREWELLED GIFTS TO SAPPER TROTMAN. ("Times-Age” Special.) The Odd Fellows’ Hall was packed on Saturday evening when a farewell was tendered to Sapper Lionel Trotman, of the Engineers attached to the first force. Amongst those present were Mr W. A. Tate (deputy Mayor), Mr J. W. Barnard (president of the Greytown branch of the R.S.A.), Superintendent J. Wood, of the Fire Brigade, and Mr J. F. Thompson, representing the sports bodies. Mr Tate apologised for the absence of the Mayor who was out of town. He congratulated Sapper Trotman on joining up and wished him good luck and, a safe return. Mr Tate said that if the. guest of the evening was as good a rifle shot as had been his grandfather and father all would be well. On behalf of the old Diggers, Mr J. W. Barnard said that a new generation was going to try and complete the job they had commenced. He stated that it was the duty of those at home to prepare the way for the soldier when he returned to civil life. On behalf of the Fire Brigade Mr J. Wood presented the guest with a pocket wallet. Mr Wood said that Mr Trotman had been a good fireman and he had no doubt that he would be a good soldier. On behalf of his many friends Mr J. F. Thompson presented Mr Trotman with a Centennial Diary and a travelling pen and pencil set. Mr Thompson stated that Mr Trotman had been a keen footballer, tennis player and also a keen Red Cross member. In replying Mr Trotman said that he was so far enjoying his new life. “In fact,” he said, “I invited my old cobbers to join up as I consider it a great life.” Mr H. C. Trotman, father of the guest, expressed his thanks to those who had given the party in honour of his son. Te Tau’s orchestra supplied the music. The evening closed with the singing of Auld Lang Syne and the National Anthem. Bowling. The progressive pairs competition for the Christmas lamb was won by W. Higgison (skip) and H. B. Wallace (lead).