Thanks John for a very interesting insight into the public's attitude and allegiance of the day. Quite different in comparison to the welcome our Vietnam Veterans received a few generations later. Ray HANNAH Perth WesternOz hannahrl@eon.net.au ICQ# 16340676 -----Original Message----- From: John Graham <johngrah@ozemail.com.au> >Extract from the "Kiama Independent" of March 12th, 1901 >WELCOME TO RETURNED SOLDIERS The hall of the School of Arts was packed to >overflowing, sitting room was out of the question, such a gathering was >never seen in the town in the memory of the oldest inhabitant. The occasion >was a welcome back and presentation to Lieutenants E. Blow, W. Moffitt, H. >Hindmarsh, and trooper Rankin, returned soldiers. The ladies of Gerringong >and locality provided a most tempting repast. The best of everything, >including fruit in abundance, with cheerful and kind attention to the wants >of everyone. >John Graham