HOME GUARD

Wairarapa Times-Age, 30 October 1941, Page 6

HOME GUARD

ARMY ORDER DEFINES DUTIES ORGANISATION OF TWO DIVISIONS. CO-ORDINATION WITH OTHER BRANCHES. (Bv Telegraph—Press Association.) WELLINGTON, This Day. A special Army order relating to the formation and functions of the Home Guard has been issued by the Army Department. The order states that the duty of the Home Guard will be to augment the defences by providing for the static defence of localities, the protection of vulnerable and key points and giving timely notice of enemy movements to superior military organisations. It is emphasised that the Home Guard is assigned a definite role in the defence of the country. Its value lies, not in individual action by members, but in proper co-ordination with other parts of the Defence forces. In the event of an imminent threat of invasion, or actual invasion, the Home Guard is liable to be called out for full time duty. Division 1 will consist of approximately 50,000 men of all ranks, fit for B combatant duties, who will be trained and equipped as quickly as possible. Division 2 will consist of those remaining members who have a reasonable standard of physical fitness for the role they may be called upon to perform. This division will act as a reserve for Division 1 and be given such training as may be possible with the equipment available. Those remaining members who have not the degree of physical fitness necessary for the duties of the Home Guard will be given a certificate acknowledging their offer of service and will be invited to join the E.P.S. or other civil organisation. The following uniform and personal equipment will be provided as soon as possible for all members of Division 1. Battle dress, cap, steel helmet, great coat, boots, web equipment. Two arm bands will be provided for members of Division 2. All officers and other ranks 6f the Home Guard who attend special courses of instruction will receive Territorial rates of pay and allowances in accordance with the regulations. In addition, they will be provided when necessary with free transport, quarters and rations.