“DESERT VICTORY”

Wairarapa Times-Age, 30 April 1943, Page 3

“DESERT VICTORY”

WAR FILM CRITICISED BY NEW ZEALANDERS PART PLAYED BY DIVISION. NOT GIVEN ADEQUATE RECOGNITION. (By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright) JERUSALEM, April 27. The New Zealand Armoured Brigade Band has completed a 10 days’ tour of Upper Egypt, during which it visited Minia, Assuit, and Luxor. The band gave 15 performances, which were received with great enthusiasm. The bandsmen visited many historic places, including the Valley of the Kings. “Desert Victory,” the film which portrays the Eighth Army’s victorious progress across North Africa, is being shown twice daily at three theatres in Cairo and two in Alexandria. Though much of the film was supplied by New Zealand camera men, New Zealanders who have seen the picture are disappointed that the part played by the New Zealand Division has not been fully recognised by the English commentator. The Australians received full recognition, but the picture would lead the public to believe that the New Zealanders were a reserve force, whereas they played a major role in the El Alameip sorties and the ultimate break-through.

The Kiwi Concert Party created a definite “occasion” for the people and garrison of Malta by a month’s tour of the island. The party was the first entertainment unit to visit the island since the outbreak of the war, and their concerts were enjoyed by thousands.

Anzac Day was suitably recognised by non-division and base units in and around Cairo and further qfield. A talk on Anzac Day was broadcast from Cairo.