CITIZENS’ PRIDE

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21189, 12 August 1940, Page 6

CITIZENS’ PRIDE

STIRRING FAREWELL THIRD ECHELON MEMBERS HAMILTON PAYS TRIBUTE Pride in the ready response of her soldier sons in a critical hour of the Empire’s history was reflected in the large number of Hamilton citizens that attended the civic farewell to local members of the third echelon and specialist companies, Second New Zealand Expeditionary Force, in the Drill Hall on Saturday night. The big attendance was in itself a tribute to the spirit of sacrifice that has actuated the young men of the district to cast aside personal considerations and take their place shoulder to shoulder with other men of the armed forces who had rallied to the Empire's call from the four corners of the globe.

Neat and trim in their battle dress, Hamilton’s representatives in the third echelon with their bronzed faces and soldierly bearing had all the appearance of veteran soldiers on parade when they fell in to hear brief speeches from the Mayor of Hamilton, Mr H. D. Caro, and the president of the Waikato Returned Soldiers’ Association, Mr A. J. White. Their alertness and brisk response to commands drew forth a spontaneous burst of cheering as they sprang to attention in front of the Mayor, Proud of Volunteers “It is my privilege and honour to farewell the Hamilton men who have joined the armed forces,” said Mr Caro. “We, in Hamilton, are very proud in particular of you men who have joined on a voluntary basis. The town is very proud, too, of the fact that it has obtained more than its quota of volunteers.” The behaviour of the men in Hamilton had been a credit not only to themselves but to the town itself, continued Mr Caro. Hamilton had no doubt as to their capability as soldiers. “New Zealand has proved that it can produce the finest fighting men in the world. We have no doubt that you men will live up to this reputation.” In conclusion, Mr Caro stated that parcels donated by the Hamilton Women’s Patriotic Committee would be distributed to the soldier guests as a small gesture of appreciation of the part they were about to play in the fight for freedom. Eve of Great Adventure “You are on the eve of a great adventure and no doubt you will acquit yourselves with honour and distinction,” said Mr White, in addressing the men. While everyone deplored the necessity of their appearance in battle dress it was recognised that it was only to aid the Empire in her hour of need. “Neither you nor we will be content until the beasts of Berlin and Rome lie powerless at your feet. We have seen dark days and may see even darker days, but there is a light that can never be extinguished—the light of freedom. The exploits of the navy, the army, and the air force make us proud that we are British and it will come as an inspiration to use when you take your stand with your cousins from overseas.” Mr White said that* the Returned Soldiers’ Association would be always ready to assist the men in the forces and would assist them on their return. The wives of members of the association had prepared small gifts that represented a slight token of appreciation and goodwill. Before the men received their gifts and dispersed, the gathering showed an enthusiastic response to the Mayor’s call for three cheers.