St John Cadet Vol. 4 No. 4 (January 1950)

THE ST. JOHN CADET

Vol. 4. No. 4. JANUARY, 1950 SIXPENCE

NEW YEAR MESSAGE, 1950

To all Officers and Cadets:

We are very proud of the progress which has been made in the Cadet Movement during the past year, and we would like to thank you all for your enthusiasm, which has made this progress possible. We are proud of our status throughout the country as a whole, as one of the best-known and most active of our National Youth Organizations. But we must never forget that we owe this position largely to the fact that we are part of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, and through it of the Venerable Order of St. John, from which we derive both our status and also special responsibilities.

We already provide a steady number of trained Student Members each year to swell the ranks of the Adult Brigade, but we shall not be fulfilling our responsibilities fully until we ensure that all Cadets, as they grow up, are ready to make their personal contribution to the Brigade of which we are all so proud. In this way will the family spirit within the Order be strengthened.

Finally, we would like to wish you all, Officers and Cadets alike, the best of luck during 1950, and much happiness in the Service of the Cadet Movement.

HONOURS FOR ST. JOHN CADET MOVEMENT

Mr. Guthrie Moir (Chief Officer, Ambulance Cadets) has been elected to the post of Vice-Chairman of the Standing Conference of National Voluntary Youth Organizations. The new Chairman is Dame May Curwen.

Miss Mildred Neville (Secretary to Mr. Guthrie Moir) has been appointed Vice-Chairman of the British Co-ordinating Committee of the World Assembly of Youth.

All Officers and Cadets of the St. John Cadet Movement offer hearty congratulations to these two officers who have done so much for Youth as a whole, and to the Cadet Movement of the St. John Ambulance Brigade in particular.

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ST. JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE CADETS

Edited by GEORGE E. CRAFT, O.St.J., F.R.S.A.

THE NATIONAL FINALS COMPETITIONS

Forty-two teams (21 boys, 21 girls) of Cadets were seen in action at the third annual National Competition finals held at Central Hall, London, on 5th November. Winners of their Regional Competition, the finalists displayed an excellent knowledge of first aid and home nursing, and throughout the day an enthusiastic large gathering of supporters watched the work being done.

Once again H.R.H. The Princess Margaret, in her uniform as Commandantin-Chief of the Cadets, honoured the gathering with her presence. On her arrival she was received by the Mayor of Westminster and welcomed by the Earl of Clarendon, Sir Henry Pownall (Chief Commissioner), and Countess Mountbatten of Burma (Superintendent-inChief); and the Chief Cadet Officers were presented to Her Royal Highness. On approaching the guard of honour, a fanfare was sounded by the Sheerness Ambulance Cadet Band; and further presentations of Executive Officers of the Order, Senior Brigade Officers, the Judges, and the Chief Stewards were made to the Princess.

The presentations were followed by demonstrations of the Senior Girls and Boys Team tests; Her Royal Highness being keenly interested in the work by the competitors.

A further fanfare was sounded as the Commandant-in-Chief proceeded from tea to take her place on the platform, for the presentation of trophies.

The Chief Commissioner welcomed the Princess to the Cadet Finals and expressed sincere appreciations to her for giving up her time to be present at the Cadet Finals for the second year in succession. Sir Henry gave particulars of the Cadet activities and stated that membership was increasing in the Cadet movement.

The Chief Commissioner announced the results as follows :

Ambulance Seniors

Marks.

Brampton and West Melton 2868 Southwick Students. eeZLO Tredegar Students 2667 Wolverton Students 2622 Radford (Coventry) 2573 Dean and Chapter 2564 Fairbairn House, London 2434 March 233 Derby 2304 Treleigh Students 2144 Trophies. Cup

SODIDARWNH=o Championship Brampton and West Melton. Highest Individual Tests : and West Melton. Brampton

RON

SOBITDU

Juniors

Hereford City Pillgwenlly Treleigh Letchworth. Fairbairn House, London Wolverton Horsham Wombwell Middlesbrough Market Harborough Chester

Trophies

Marks 3143 3102 301 291} 272-6 260-6 241-6 2414 237 236-1 226-6

Championship Cup: Hereford City. Highest Individual Tests Letchworth.

Nursing Seniors

Southwick Students Chelmsford Students Halesowen Students St. Boniface, Plymouth. Leicester Royal Infirmary High Wycombe Harrow Portrush Girl Guides Lumley and Burnmoor Rotherham

Marks. 311-8 2664 254-3 253-6 250-1 246-1 2423 236-6 233-6 231-3

Trophies

Championship Trophy: Southwick. Senior Individual Trophy Southwick. Home Nursing Trophy (Senior or Junior): St: Boniface, Plymouth.

Juniors

SORND ABN

A

Paignton. 323 Weymouth 317} Dewsbury - 307% Ipswich eo Treharris RS Guildford - 2704 Middlesbrough 270 Ealing - 2542 Alverston 242 Oscott, Birmingham 2354 Portrush Girl Guides 2194

Trophies

Championship Trophy: Paignton. Individual Tests : Weymouth. Bedmaking Trophy (Senior or Junior) Weymouth Junior team.

Her Royal Highness presented the championship and other trophies to the successful members.

The Chief Commissioner then announced the winner of the American Trophy for Gallantry. This year the trophy had been gained by Nursing Cadet Betty Ives of

76

H.R.H. The Princess Margaret applaudingthe demonstration by Senior Ambulance Cadets.

H.R.H. The Princess Margaret presenting awards to the Southwick Student Nursing team.

the Andover Nursing Cadet Division. Betty was near the gravel pit at Charlton, Andover, on 22nd August, when she heard a cry from a five-year-old boy (Joe Byrne), who was seen struggling in the water. Betty snatched up an inflated inner tube, with which she had been practising her swimming, and jumped into the water. By using the inner tube to keep afloat she managed to pull the boy

Commandant-in-Chief (this being the first occasion on which the Commandant-inChief had presented the trophy), she received a great ovation from the many persons present.

Her Royal Highness expressed her pleasure at again being present at the National Competition Finals, and the progress which the Cadet Movement had

SPEECH BY H.R.H. PRINCESS MARGARET

It gives me great pleasure to be with you all again on the occasion of your

Annual Cadet Competitions.

Since this event last year have seen something of the work the Cadet Movement is doing in different parts of the country. The usefulness of that work is further underlined by the presentation which I am glad to be able to make this afternoon of the American Cup for Gallantry. I believe your Chief Commissioner had great difficulty this year in deciding to whom it should be given, for so many courageous actions in the saving of life have been performed by St. John Cadets during the year. I would like, therefore, to congratulate Betty Ives all the more warmly on her success.

was very pleased to hear of the enthusiasm aroused by the Annual Cadet Officers Conference at Oxford in September. This is rapidly becoming one of the most popular events in the St. John Calendar and I was particularly impressed at the number of counties represented there from all over the British Isles, and by the representation from the Commonwealth and from Kire.

This sort of keenness for training is vital if voluntary organizations are to continue to play their full part in the life of the community.

Since Oxford, as you know, a number of Officers and Cadets flew to Malta to take part in the celebrations of the 40th Anniversary of the Brigade in Malta. I was delighted when I heard about this venture because I can well imagine the thrill it must have given the party to see the historic home of the Order under such happy circumstances. I hope the friendship established there between Officers of the Brigade at Home and the Brigade Overseas may be the means of stimulating the work of our Cadet Movement through the Commonwealth and especially in those Colonies where our sort of Youth Organization is most needed.

Finally, I have been so glad to hear of the splendid contribution our Cadet Movement has been making to the Nursing Profession and of the value of our Cadet training to young men called up for National Service. Having seen something of the high standard of our Cadets, I am confident that the quality of their contribution will increase rather than decrease in years to come.

to the bank. By that time the boy had lost consciousness and Betty sent her sister for his father. She then proceeded to clear the boy s mouth of weeds and applied artificial respiration. The boy quickly recovered and it was found unnecessary to call the doctor, Betty Ives was 12 years old at the time of the accident and had only learnt to swim during the previous four weeks. She showed great courage in diving into ten feet of water to rescue Joe Byrnes who would undoubtedly have drowned but for her prompt action.

As Cadet Betty Ives proceeded to the

made during the year. She referred to her visit to Eastbourne in July when the Cadets of Sussex held an excellent function.

Countess Mountbatten of Burma (Superintendent-in-Chief) tendered sincere thanks to Her Royal Highness, and referred to the recent visit of St. John Cadets to Malta. Lady Mountbatten read a letter from the Cadets of Malta to the Cadets at Home.

After the National Anthem Her Royal Highness left the platform to the accompaniment of three rousing cheers from the

CELEBRATIONS IN MALTA

Some 70 Ambulance and Nursing Cadets from England and Wales took part in the 40th anniversary celebrations of the Malta District of the Brigade Overseas, held from 15th to 23rd October. And what an experience they had

Setting off from Northolt Aerodrome in three British European Airways Vikings, under the care of Asst. Commissioner H. J. Harris, County Cadet Officer J. Newall, County Cadet Officers Miss Trill and Mrs. Robinson, the Cadets reached Malta on 13th October, after an uneventful flight. There they found arrangements had been made for their comfort, and everything possible was done during their stay to make them happy and to enjoy the trip.

Many functions were held and private parties and_ sight-seeing tours were arranged. All visiting members were impressed by the splendid way in which the celebrations had been organized by the Commissioner, Colonel J. V. Abela and Lady District Superintendent Mrs. K. Gulia. It was a great inspiration that Cadets were able to tread in the sacred places in the history of the Order and to form part of the greatest assembly of members of the Brigade at Home ever vw be together overseas.

The Cadets from England and Wales gave demonstrations which were much applauded, and they were not slow in delving into the shops in Valetta and other places.

It was a great thrill to them to be entertained by Earl and Lady Mountbatten on H.M.S. Liverpool and to pay visits to the famous ship Amethyst, which reached Malta during their stay. Incidentally, Wireless Operator French, who was decorated for his devotion to duty, is an old St. John Cadet.

The Cadets were able to see the Lord Prior (Lord Wakehurst), the Chief Commissioner Brigade Overseas (Col. Sir James Sleeman), the Lady Superintendent-inChief (the Hon. Mrs. Copland-Griffiths), the Chief Officers of Cadets (Mr. Guthrie Moir and Miss V. Cunard), together -with other Officers from home, on parades and inspections.

On arrival back home, Cadet Joan Gunn, of Grays and County Cadet Officer Miss Trill, were included in In Town To-night ? programme on the Home Service of the B.B.C.

Did the Cadets behave themselves?

The following letter is a complete answer to that. Assistant Commissioner H.) J. Harris and County Cadet Officer N. E.

Newall would be grateful if you would permit them through the medium of your paper to pay tribute to the Ambulance Cadets who visited Malta in October last. The behaviour of these boys was at all times beyond reproach, their general smartness and appearance was excellent, and greatly admired by the Maltese people we were indeed proud to be the Officers in charge of such a grand contingent of Cadets who upheld so well the true spirit of the St. John Ambulance Brigade.

Before going to Malta the Cadets were informed that the Countess Mountbatten of Burma and the Hon. Mrs. CoplandGriffiths would give two prizes for the best stories on the trip. The winners of these prizes are Brian Jarman (Isle of Wight) and Anne Patch (Shropshire).

(Note. In addition to the Cadets, adult personnel of the Brigade also from England and Wales took part in the celebrations.)

H.R.H. The Princess Margaret presenting the American Gallantry Cup to Cadet Betty Ives. platform to receive the award from the hundreds of Cadets present.

PROBLEMS IN TRAINING THE 8-I1 RECRUITS

By Ione S. BurRLEY (Cadet Superintendent, London District)

With the introduction of a new age group for Cadets, new methods become necessary in the training because what is possible with the older cadets may be found to be quite hopeless when applied to boys and girls of such immature years. Those over II years of age are capable of accepting instruction and adding this to knowledge previously acquired, but the 8 to Il years group have so little groundwork on which new subject matter can be built.

These children are in the age group of the primary school and education authorities are advocating a curriculum distinct from that used in the infant school. It is also separate from that used in the secondary modern or grammar school. Similarly, the 8 to 11 cadets should be separated from the older cadets for purposes of training, although joining with them for the opening drill or assembly, when there should be a joint effort in the Cadet Hymn, Opening Prayers, and the Recitation of the Code of Chivalry. Thus, the youngest would learn to feel that they were part of one big family.

Both the boys and girls have left babyhood; they are emerging as individuals and as extremely lively individuals. They are growing quickly, both mentally and physically. Girls are at the tom-boy stage, playing indiscriminately with boys or girls, racing, climbing trees, hand-balancing, etc. They are trying out all kinds of new experiences; they have little clothes interest and have not yet developed washing and hair-combing as a habit.

Day-school teachers are ready for this; the curriculum is planned to meet it. Teaching must be based on things that are real to the child. For example, in teaching geography or history, stories of people are told with some details of their mode of life, types of houses, kinds of food eaten, and the utensils used in the preparation of the food. Children are encouraged to act these stories and to live the parts, to dress in something like the style of the time, making use of old scrap material 80

for this purpose. The value of this method, in connection with the History of the Order, will be apparent. In the day school, arithmetic is practical measuring, weighing, buying, and selling. But always there keeps recurring that one short word why , and teachers have to be prepared for this word and to give an answer which will be within the mentality of the child and, most important of all, satisfy the questioner. It is advisable that those who think of taking up positions as Leaders or Officers of this very young group should visit primary schools, speak to the teachers, and observe the methods adopted. Permission to visit a school is not likely to be refused when application is made to the head teacher.

These ideas could be fitted into the published syllabus for cadets of the 8 to 11 group. The children are intensely interested in nature study, and it is but a short step from the study of animals, birds, and flowers to the study of the human frame and all its ills. Simple talks on the body and its structure should be illustrated on the body, showing, for example, the various movements possible and leading to the why one joint moves one way and one another, and why the range of the movement is limited. No doubt most children have experienced or seen a pricked or cut finger. This is something known, and from that can be built up the elementary idea of the circulation. What happens when an elastic band is twisted tightly round a finger ? Why do we choke when something goes down the wrong way ?

Discipline is very necessary when dealing with children, but it must be of the right type. This age group has a very real sense of justice and of right and wrong, and will respond quickly if it feels that the Leader is fair in decisions and is willing to explain why the decision is made. If a child asks why he or she should do something, it is worse than useless to say Because I said so .

Youth responds to youth, but finds

great difficulty in getting on with older folk. To a child a grown up of 40 is awfully old and that child senses the inability of the grown up to understand the viewpoint of the child. This does seem to point to the possibility of making fuller use of our over 16s. Naturally they will need some training, but the important point is that they, subconsciously, have some knowledge of child psychology as a result of their own recent experiences in and out of school. If the older cadets are not available as Leaders, inquiry might be made of Local Authorities to ascertain if there were girls of 16 being employed in nurseries as assistants and learning by doing to be nursery nurses. Again, some education authorities accept pre-college students as assistants in the day schools where they gain valuable experience, and amongst these there may be some who would be willing to help in the training.

In summary, therefore, the new group requires

(1) Specialized training for Leaders and Officers.

(2) A new method of approach according to the psychological development of this age group.

(3) A new style of teaching.

(4) Youthful Leaders and Officers who will have a full appreciation of the needs of the very young:

FIRST AID FILM STRIP

The Daily Mail School Aid Department has issued a film strip which should appeal to members of the Cadet Movement. The film consists of forty-three frames and is divided into four lessons on first aid. There is the introduction of the human body, an accident which has taken place on the school football field, the treatment of wounds, the description of germs, the blood and the chief blood vessels, methods of stopping bleeding, artificial respiration, and the treatment of miscellaneous injuries such as nose bleeding, scalds, etc. With every strip is provided teaching notes (composed by Dr. A. David Belilios) which describe each frame. Although the text differs from St. John treatment in one or two minor instances, this does not detract from the usefulness of the film strip.

Copies of the film strip can be obtained from'the Daily Mail School Aid Department, New Carmelite House, London, E.C. 4, at a cost of 12s. 6d. each.

PRESENTATION OF ARTS CUPS

On 17th December the annual Cadet Party and presentation of Arts Cups was held at St. John s Gate. The Chief Com- missioner (Sir Otto Lund) presided, supported by the Chief Cadet Officers.

The recipients were as follows :

Music Cup: Ist, Thelma Brown (age 15, Leamington Spa N.C.D.) 2nd, (tied) Elizabeth Hansford (age 18, Highbridge and District N.C.D.) and Joyce Yates (age 18, Leicester Royal Infirmary N.S.D.); 8rd, Derek Boyle (age 17, Twickenham A.C.D.). Elizabeth Hansford gained first place in the 1948 competition and Joyce Yates gained first place in the 1937 competition.

Author's Cup: Ist, Dorothy Lewis (age 15%, Towcester Grammar School N.C.D.) 2nd, Frederick Spann (age 153, Weaverham (Cheshire) A.C.D.); 3rd, Sheila White (London Road (Bedford) N.C.D.). Special prize for Play: Brian Moore (age 16, Stretford A.C.D.).

Poetry Cup Ist, Judith Spink (age 124, Eltham (London) N.C.D.) 2nd, Patricia Johnson (age 14, Lewisham (London) N.C.D.); 3rd, Margaret»Pitchers (age 15 years 7 months, Headington N.C.D.)

Painter's Cup: 1st, Antony Newall (age 17, Radford (Coventry) A.C.D.); 2nd, Joy Pelling (age 13, Heston N.C.D.); 3rd__(tied), Denis Heather (age 154, Surbiton A.C.D.) Raymond Smith (age 15 years 11 months, Morecambe A.C.D.), and Patricia Jones (age 14 years 4 months, Streatham (London) N.C.D.).

Poster Competition: Winner, Vera Wilson (age 16 years 7 months, York City N.C.D.).

Chancellor's Essay Pyize: Patricia Flannigan (age 14 years 8 months, La Sagesse (Newcastle) N.C.D.); Consolation prize presented by Major R. Williams (Librarian of the Order) Margery Palliser (15 years, West Derby (Liverpool) N.C.D.). Patricia Flannigan was runner-up in the 1948 competition.

A surprise presentation by the Chief Commissioner was the Service Medal to Miss Virginia Cunard (Chief Officer Nursing Cadets), who received an ovation.

Cadet Meritorious Certificate was presented to Keith Broomhead (Morecambe A.C.D.) who assisted in the rescue of a swimmer and successfully applied artificial respiration to the patient.

Mr. Archie Camden, the celebrated bassoonist, gave a talk and selections on the bassoon.

V.A.D. SERVICE

When your brothers and friends join up for their national service, do you ever wish that you too could equip yourself so that, like them, you would be ready to serve in emergency?

Throughout the war V.A.D. Units nursed at Hospitals all over Great Britain, and also in many places overseas.

The first V.A.D. Members to be called up had for years before the outbreak of war undertaken to train in Service Hospitals, so that they were ready to serve in emergency.

Besides Divisional duties, these Members served for one week every third year in a Service Hospital, and recruiting for a V.A.D. Reserve for service with the Royal Navy is once more open. When this was announced in Parliament, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty said

T should like to take this opportunity of expressing the Admivalty s appreciation of the services which members of the V.A.D. have rendered to the Royal Navy during and since the last war.

When you are 174 you can enrol either for Reserve or full time V.A.D. Service. Reserve training periods are, as formerly, one week in three years.

The Royal Navy are still recruiting V.A.D. Members for nursing and clerical duties for full time service.

Why should you not see life in the Services too, and gain the experience which will make you so much more efficient in time of emergency? The, knowledge acquired while nursing will help you in the home, in daily life and in so many occupations, both directly and indirectly connected with the maintenance of good health and the care of sickness. As well as Nursing, Beauty Treatment, Hairdressing, Occupational Therapy and Welfare are only a few of the many careers, which will be helped by Hospital experience.

Have you ever thought that you might become a full time V.A.D. Member serving with the Royal Navy You are asked to sign a two-year contract on joining, and you are given a 17 weeks course of instruction as well as gaining practical experience on the wards. This time would not be wasted, for as well as meeting and making new friends, opening new doors, and giving a wider outlook, a different side of life appears with new possibilities for the future.

But more important still, the General Nursing Council for England and Wales, have recently agreed that V.A.D. Members may, after a period of training in Base Hospitals of the Royal Navy, and who

pass the necessary test , qualify to present themselves as candidates for the Preliminary State Examination, Parts I and II. On completion of their Contract with the Royal Navy, successful candidates may apply to Matrons in charge of Training Schools, for selection as student nurses, to complete their general training, which should take 24 years.

This recognition of the work of V.A.D. Members by the General Nursing Council is another tribute to the Service which has made a name for cheerful and ungrudging devotion to duty.

Volunteers both for nursing and clerical duties, who have had previous experience, re-enrol at the rank they formerly attained.

New recruits for the Reserve will be welcomed, and they will have the opportunity of serving during their training with the V.A.D. Units now employed in full time service with the Royal Navy.

These recruits, members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade or the British Red Cross Society, must, like all candidates for Reserve Service, produce a satisfactory Medical Certificate.

Application for enrolment in the V.A.D. Reserve should be made to Divisions (N), candidates who are not already members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade or the British Red Cross Society may obtain particulars from any Division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, or may apply to the V.A.D. Department, 7 Grosvenor Crescent, S.W. 1, for details of the scheme and for the address of the nearest Division.

Rates of pay shown below will apply wos

(a) V.A.D. Members now serving in Naval establishments, and

(0) in any future emergency, and for the proposed one week s training in the Navy every three years.

Probationary V.A.D. Member ee)

After 26 weeks service 3 V.A.D. Member 4 Senior V.A.D. Member 6 Supervising V.A.D. Members. cabal Head V.A.D. Member 8

THE POETRY CUP COMPETITION

The winning entry for the above, Judith Spink of Eltham, London, is only 123 years of age, the judge marking her paper Remarkable for girl of 12 . The title of her poem was The Cornish Sea ; the words being as follows

The water lies, a turquoise sheet of light

The green weeds wave life half-forgotten dreams

Smooth, silver sand and painted fish are bright, And lustrous mother o pearl with softness gleams.

Three mermaids sit in one dim, hidden cave, Shrouded in magic, milky light they weave

A spell made from a soul, a tiny wave Of life they weave it, flee, and nothing leave.

With this dark spell they then stir up a gale

Over the calm blue sky a dark mass grows

Great copper clouds with edges livid pale Loom o er the seas whereon a wild wind blows.

Behind the frowning crags, the tossing sea A power awakes, and sends the rollers crashing

On ek way each spurt of spray flung ree

From them leaps to meet the lightning flashing.

Land clashes with the seas An opalescent Disc glides through the murk, all full of foam

That s boiling in its rage; the phosphorescent Waves retreat, and bow before the moon.

The second prize-winner was Pat Maude Johnson of the Lewisham (London) Nursing Cadet Division, whose entry was The Rescue of Alexander Selkirk .

I stood and watched the sun go down into the silent sea, All nature seemed to be asleep except the gulls and me, As wheeling, crying, calling shrill above the gleaming sand, They dived and swooped down to the sea which lay on either hand.

Each evening now for seven years at length said and groaned, Here have I stood and scanned the sea. This island compassed round With the green billows is my prison place, whereon do grow The yam, the breadfruit, and the juicy grape. Nor frost, nor snow

Here have I known and gentle Zephyrs fans the cool glades

With his warm breath. Amidst these hills and valleys, heats and shades

I live the seasons round, but do not know whether tis spring Orsummer yet. For the first year I madea plaited string

And in it tied my days of hermitage, but sighting a boat

I tore the string asunder with loud curses and did gloat

Upon this cruel island which he held. Alas, my fate

Was to remain here! Oh, Lord of Mercy it is not too late

Yet to remove me from this desert island s cruel pow r

And bear me home! But night draws on apace, I ll seek my bow r.

Up rose the moon into the silent sky the jungle folk

Woke into consciousness again, and the whole island spoke

With many voices. Chirping of crickets, prating of a bird, And the increasing murmur of the sea came to my ears; I heard

The wind up in the palm-trees comb it: hair. The scent of leaves

And flowers in the close, tropical night, borne on the breeze

Plunged like a knife into my aching heart, and sick for home

I wept salt tears, and tossed upon my bed. One restless foam

Did but remind me of my prisonment. I rose at last And wandered to the sea shore, where a ship with towering mast

And sails like blood, swing at her anchor, rising on the tide.

A St. John V.A.D. on duty.

No word was uttered and I made no sign, as like a bride

A white boat came toward me. In the bows sat a tall man Clad all in robes of white and holding a lily inhishand...

The Angel Gabriel. Saint Michael took the oars and rowed Out to the ship, which made up anchor .

The moonlight showed Her tall masts and the great sails strained to catch sea-going winds. We climb aboard and standing by the poop, the helmsman bends, And the ship moves like some awakened swan, smoothly and slow.

Onward we sail...no_ breezes stir. Onward no winds do blow. An awful silence all around ... a land of mighty snow!

Sudden breezes fanned my forehead and a chanting came

From the sea-ward sounds of voices were in my ears again.

With a glad cry leapt from slumber and ran to the sand

Tripped, but scrambled to my feet again. I passed my hand

Across my eyes. There out to windward stood a gallant barque

Her white sails gleaming in the new-risen suns (Ohy-butehark

To the song of the sailors in the rigging. Out came a boat from the tall ship s side

And seeing my rescue thus to come about I thought to hide

Instead I fell upon my face and on the burning shore

I wept and with the thought of home again, wept the more.

THE ORDER OF ST. JOHN TO-DAY

By Corporal BRENDA Rovwunp, Sladefield Road School Nursing Cadet Division, Birmingham

The Order of St. John originated over a thousand years ago, when a body of men calling themselves the Poor Brethren of the Hospital of St. John under Brother Gerard, the first recorded head of the brotherhood, tended at their hospital in Jerusalem pilgrims to the Holy City who were in need of succour. On the death of Gerard in 1120, Raymond du Puy made the Order one of Knighthood, and became its first Grand Master. During the troublesome times of the Crusades the Knights were driven from Jerusalem, and found various places of refuge during the ensuing years, until eventually in 1530, they found a home in Malta and fortified the island. It was from the time of the establishment of the Order in Malta that its growth gradually became more and more international in character, until to-day it has reached world-wide eminence.

No consideration of race, class, or creed is allowed to interfere with its humanitarian objects. In times of war and international strife, its unrivalled reputation for care and relief of all persons in sickness, suffering, and danger, permits it to carry out its work for both or either side with that impartiality it has established as one of its corner-stones. The Order has established trained reserves, who are immediately called on in time of war to augment the normal military and naval medical Services, and the valuable work they do helps in no small measure to alleviate the conditions which inevitably arise when huge masses of combatants are on active service. It is also, in association with the British Red Cross Society, often the only means of

contact between prisoners of war in the hands of their enemies and their relatives and loved ones, anxiously waiting for news at home.

During nearly the whole of the thousand years of its existence, the Order has had in the forefront of its mind the humble origin of the hospital in Jerusalem, and although there was a lapse of nearly seven hundred years, in 1882 the Order returned to Jerusalem, restarted the hospital which gives its name to the Order, and, apart from a break in the first World War, when the hospital was occupied by the Turks, has continued to maintain its work there. At the present time the work of this hospital is mainly Ophthalmic, and although the majority of its patients are the local Arabs and Jews, it gives treatment to people from as far away as Cyprus and other countries of the Eastern Mediterranean.

The principal work of the Order in England is furthered by the voluntary efforts of the St. John Ambulance Association and the St. John Ambulance Brigade, the members of which are recruited from all walks of English life and who give their time and services readily to the furtherance of the objects of the Order. The St. John Ambulance Association gives instruction in First Aid, Home Nursing, Child Welfare, Sanitation and Hygiene, by the formation of classes organised by its centres, which exist in most of the large towns of England, Scotland, and Wales. Smaller towns are able to organise their classes in direct communication with Headquarters at St. John s Gate. The Lectures are given by qualified doctors and nurses and many certificates of proficiency are awarded

annually. In the same way centres and classes have been organized in the Dominions and Colonies of the British Empire, and the textbooks of the Association have been translated into other languages for the benefit of those who do not speak English.

The value of a working knowledge of First Aid has been appreciated by many bodies, and it is necessary for the majority of Police Officers, Mates and Masters of the Merchant Navy, and Skippers of fishing boats to possess a First Aid Certificate. A knowledge of First Aid has also been appreciated by the workers in mines and factories, both former scenes of many accidents, and in the majority of mines and factories to-day there is usually a First Aid Room, properly equipped to deal with any accidents which may occur, and there is quite often a fully qualified member of the St. John Ambulance Brigade on full time duty at such posts.

The Association also counts it among one of the most important of its objects to provide equipment and textbooks for the use of people attending any of its classes or the classes of the St. John Ambulance Brigade. The Stores Department also specializes in First Aid Appliances and First Aid Outfits, which meet all Government requirements in connection with First Aid in Factories, Workshops, Quarries, Mines, and Docks.

The St. John Ambulance Brigade is a uniformed body whose members are required to hold certificates in First Aid and its female members in Home Nursing also. Efficiency is ensured by the fact that members must take a re-examination in one or both subjects annually. The personnel of the Brigade is enrolled into Ambulance Divisions for the men, Nursing Divisions for the women, and Cadet Divisions for boys and girls. Brigade members attend all classes of functions where large crowds of people are assembled. The black and white uniform is a familiar sight at race-meetings and other sports events, at ceremonial parades and gatherings of a similar nature. As another part of their public duty, members give many hours voluntary attendance in cinemas and theatres. In some cases, when police permission has to be obtained before a function can take place, that permission is only given on condition that members of the Brigade are present in an official capacity. During the summer First Aid Posts are erected and maintained at many sea-side resorts and many minor injuries are treated at these posts. In a similar way huts and tents are staffed by Brigade members in holiday camps which are again widely used but usually for only minor injuries.

The Brigade also maintains a Road Service with road-side First Aid posts and in co-operation with Local Authorities is often instrumental in providing an efficient Ambulance Service,.in some cases being the sole organisers of such a service. The St. John Ambulance Brigade also cooperates with the British Red Cross Society and the Women s Voluntary Services in providing a Hospital Car Service for transportation of patients to and from hospital, In many hospitals part-time service is given by St. John nurses, who also help in Child-Welfare Clinics, Day Nurseries, and Blood Transfusion Depots, and sometimes work under the auspices of the District Nurse. In another branch of its work, the Brigade provides an Escort Service for sick people travelling by land, sea, and air, and Air Accident Aid Squads are often on duty on airfields.

It is in this extensive field of voluntary service that the joint mottoes of the Order Pro Fide and Pyro Utilitate Hominum are so worthily upheld.

Entrance to the Brigade by way of the Cadet Divisions, is made attractive to juniors by the interesting and varied activities undertaken at their periodical divisional meetings. Here in addition to the valuable instruction Cadets receive from qualified instructors in the elementary principles of First Aid and Home Nursing, many other activities are undertaken. In the case of the boys divisions, they are offered courses in Woodwork, Agilities of all kinds, Air Accident Aid, etc., while the girls divisions pursue their activities on Child Welfare, Housecraft, P.T., and National dancing. Some courses are arranged jointly for boys and girls among which are Fire-fighting, Signalling, Camping, Clerical Ability, and Interpretership.

It is by this training of the junior volunteers that the team spirit and spirit of public service of which the Order is so justly proud is initiated and fostered. This spirit follows through the later stages of instruction by way of the Student divisions of Nurses and Ambulance men, until the Student is admitted to membership of the Adult Brigade.

It is the day-to day devotion to the Order by these members of the Brigade that forms the solid groundwork on which is built this world-wide Order of service to humanity.

THE OXFORD CONFERENCE

A full report of the Conference is now ready and copies can be obtained from the Stores Department, St. John s Gate, London, E.C. 1, price 1s. 6d., plus postage. All Cadet Officers should have a copy.

CADET OFFICERS COURSE,

3rd 4th December, 1949

Eighty-one Cadet Officers and prospective Cadet Officers from 23 Counties attended the Cadet Officers Course, which was a concentrated week-end of training covering the whole of Cadet activities.

The Course was opened by Miss Virginia Cunard, Chief Officer Nursing Cadets, who welcomed the delegates, and introduced the Chief Commissioner, Lt.General Sir Otto Lund, who addressed the Course on The Brigade and the Cadet Movement He said that the future of the Brigade lay with the Cadet Movement, and depended on the ability of all Cadet Officers to keep up the interest and enthusiasm of their Cadets so that they would want to join the Adult Brigade when the time came.

Sir Otto was followed by Major A. C. White Knox, Commissioner, No. District, whose subject was Brighter First Aid . Saying that the same First Aid lectures, repeated year in, year out, became exceedingly dull unless enlivened with demonstrations, personal reminiscence, models, or films he illustrated his lecture with anatomical specimens and flasks of blood, and showed how working models of various organs could be constructed.

The next speaker was County Cadet Officer Heywood-Smith (Leicestershire), on Divisional Publicity He spoke of the need for close contact with the local papers, through which we could make ourselves and our work known to the general public.

There was a break, during which the delegates had tea, and the Course was resumed, with Miss Cunard speaking on The Cadet Officers Task . She outlined the way in which a Cadet Division should be administered, what should be done about new recruits, how to organize classes and plan a programme, etc. She endorsed Major White Knox s advice to make all lectures, not only first aid, as lively and interesting as possible.

County Cadet Officer Miss E. M. Trill (Sussex), spoke next on Proficiency Subjects , stressing the importance of maintaining the standard of these subjects, and of persuading Cadets to take subjects other than first aid for themselves and not for the badges.

After dinner the Course reassembled to hear Miss Lorna Bennett, Youth Education Officer to the Council for Education in World Citizenship, talk about her

ST. JOHN

HOUSE

organization. She told them its history, and in what ways it could help the Cadet Movement, such as by providing films and books and arranging exchanges abroad and speakers on foreign countries.

The first session on Sunday was divided into two talks, the first of The Arts Cups , by County Cadet Officer Mrs. Hugh Robinson (Worcestershire), and the other on Camping by Area Cadet Officer R. H. Lowe (No. District). Mrs. Robinson ran through the headings under which Cadets could compete for these Cups, and urged Officers to encourage their Cadets to enter, as apart from the pleasure they got, the competitions stimulated imagination and developed personality.

Mr. Lowe gave briefly the conditions and equipment necessary for successful camping, and arrangements which had to be made, and concluded by listing the qualifications for the Camp Training Certificate and Camping Warrant.

After the subsequent break and Group Discussion, the delegates watched a drill demonstration by Sergeant Major Stratford of No. 1 District, and a trained squad of four.

The first speaker in the afternoon was Area Cadet Officer H. F. Mulligan (No. District) on Recruiting . He gave some valuable hints on contact with parents, school teachers, and cinema managers, but warned of the dangers of losing new recruits through lack of accommodation or sufficient Cadet Officers.

The final speaker on the Course was Mr. Guthrie Moir, Chief Officer Ambulance Cadets, who talked about the Oxford Conference. He gave a brief summary of the main ideas and suggestions received from the Discussion Groups at the Conference, and advised his audience to order a copy of the Report if they had not already done so. He announced that the next Cadet Officers Conference would take place at Morecambe, Lancashire, from 29th September to 2nd October, 1950.

This talk was followed by the final Discussion Group and the Group Leaders then presented the results of their Discussions to the Chief Cadet Officer. Several extremely useful suggestions came from Cadet N.C.O.s who attended the Course. The Course ended with a few words of thanks to the Chief Officers from Area Cadet Officer Taylor (No. District).

REPORTS FROM BEDFORD

Luton Wardown Nursing Cadets held their competition for the Stevens Cup recently, when County Officer Mrs. W. Weatherhead and County Cadet Officer Mrs. Laurence were the judges. Janet Bardell gained first place, followed by Jean Everett. Mrs. Laurence presented the trophy and also various certificates.

BERKSHIRE

The County Cadet competitions were held at Reading, where five Ambulance teams in the junior section competed for the Welling Cup, and four Nursing teams for the Elizabeth Byland Bowl. The following results were announced : Welling Cup, Maidenhead Division Elizabeth Byland Bowl, Earley Division Frank Webb Cup for Reading teams, Reading G.W. Division. The Jarvis Bowl for the Ambulance Cadet gaining the highest number of marks, was won by Cadet Englefield (G.W.R. Division). Mrs. Jarvis, wife of Asst. Commissioner Jarvis, presented the Jarvis Bowl, and County Commissioner C. A. Poole, in presenting the other awards, congratulated the teams.

BUCKINGHAM

The County Cadet Competitions resulted in the following :

Senior Boys. Wolverton (winners of Taylor Shield) Beaconsfield (winners of Collins Cup).

Junior Boys. Wolverton (winners of Beachcroft Shield) Beaconsfield (winners of Nathan Cup).

Senior Girls High Wycombe (only entry), awarded the Chetwode Cup.

Junior Girls. Aylesbury (winners of County Cup); High Wycombe (winners of Ethel Dawson Cup).

The Scott Cup for the best team in the Nursing Tests was won by Aylesbury.

CAMBRIDGE

Littleport. Mr. William Gay, manager of Lloyds Bank, has been appointed Hon. Treasurer of the Ambulance and Nursing Cadet Divisions.

On Remembrance Sunday both Divisions paraded almost full strength, and joined other organizations in a Church Parade, under the command of Supt. L. A. Hughes and A/Supt. Mrs. Hughes.

The Ambulance Student and Cadet Sections have recently moved into new headquarters at St. John s Methodist Church, the Rev. J. Puntis becoming Divisional Chaplain.

March. On the occasion of the official visit by Britain s Railway Queen, three 87

THE COUNTIES

members of the March Nursing Cadet Division acted as attendants.

CORNWALL

A County-wide effort was made on 15th October to raise money for County Cadet Funds. Practically every Division assisted in some way, and a St. John Fair was held in Bodmin. Stalls and sideshows were run by adults and Cadets, and several extremely decorative schemes made by. the Cadets added to the attractions. A small stall with information, photographs, and booklets of all Cadet activities in the County, gave added interest. The Fair was opened by Mrs. Douglas Marshall, wife of Commander Douglas. Marshall, Member for Bodmin. £150 was raised after expenses had been met.

CHESHIRE

The Cheshire County Cadet Camp was held at Bickerton, where 150 Cadets with their Officers were under canvas: On the Sunday morning, the Vicar of Bickerton conducted an impressive field service. Throughout the whole time Cadets were fully occupied, and it was pleasing that on Parents Day almost 250 parents visited the Camp. The County Commissioner and County Staff inspected the camp, and Mr. Guthrie Moir, Chief Officer Ambulance Cadets, was a welcome visitor, as was also Lady Mary Berry, who had just been appointed County Cadet Vice-President. The Camping Cups were won by Crewe Ambulance and Wallasey Nursing Divisions, the former Division also winning the Sports Shield and Treasure Hunt.

Crewe. The following members of the Crewe Ambulance Cadet Division, received the Grand Prior s Cadet Badge from Mr. Guthrie Moir, Chief Officer Ambulance Cadets, at the annual County Camp. Sergeants Terence Beckett and Geoffrey Stockton, Corporals Neil Beckett, John Sant, and James Fryer, and Cadets Colin Beckett and Horace Wakely, Sergt. Beckett, Corpl. Beckett, and Cadet Beckett are brothers, and are sons of Area Cadet Officer H. N. Beckett.

Dukinfield. Dr. Macfie and Mrs. Macfie have given a trophy, to be known as the Margaret Macfie Cup, for competition among Cadet Divisions of Stalybridge, Bredbury, Romiley, and Dukinfield. The first competition will take place this month. This gift was announced at a recent meeting held in Dukinfield, at which Dr. Macfie presented certificates and other awards including the silver cup, presented annually for general efficiency, to Cadet Joan Mills.

DERBY

Ilkeston. County Cadet Officer C. I. Margerrison, supported by Area Cadet Officers T. L. Hutton and Miss R. M. Drury, carried out an enrolment ceremony in Ilkeston Parish Church, where the Rev. R. Foskett gave an address on the Eight-pointed Cross.

KENT

Folkestone. Cadet Lorna Curtis gained first place in the Curzon-Smith Cup competition, judged by County Cadet -Officer Miss Curzon-Smith and Miss W. M. Fox, S.R.N., with Cadet Florence Sellen as runner-up. She also received a cup from Miss Curzon-Smith.

In the Ambulance Cadet Competition for the Holman Cup, judged by Corps Officers L. B. Easton and R. Moat, Cadet Jan McSwan gained first place with Cadet Leslie Batten as runner-up.

LEICESTER

Swimming Gala. Cadet Valerie Wadd, of Vaughan College Nursing Cadets, won the over. 15 s event, and Cadet Christine Baines, of the same division, the under 15 s event. The team race also went to the same division.

Church Parade. About 70 Ambulance and Nursing Cadets paraded on Armistice Sunday, and marched from Leicester Headquarters to Holy Trinity Church, headed by the Cadet Band. County Cadet Officers E. Heywood Smith and Miss E. Sansome, took the salute after the service, which was conducted by the Vicar, the Rev. Strudd.

LINCOLN

Grimsby. County Supt. Mrs. E. M. Epton visited Grimsby, and carried out an enrolment ceremony of 22 boys and girls. Supporting Mrs. Epton was Mr. W. Fletcher, Dr. L. Gerlis, Dr. R. EF. Richardson, and the Hon. Secretary of the Youth Leaders Council.

LONDON

Northern Area. On 8th December a meeting was held in the Headquarters of the Edmonton Division, where Miss V. Cunard, Chief Officer Nursing Cadets,

presented Grand Prior Cadet Badges to Joan Fountain (Tudor Division). Shirley Napolitan, Lydia Dees, and Joyce Hodge (Southgate), Beryl Wrighton, Rhoda Bailey, and Margaret Thomson (Barnet), and Patricia Stacke (Hampstead). Area Cadet Officer Miss Frowde welcomed Miss Cunard, and gave particulars of the Cadets who were to receive the badges. Most of them had been members for four or five years, and one had gained her medallion at the age of 17 years. Miss Cunard congratulated the recipients, and gave reasons why the badge subjects had been included in the Cadet curriculum.

Asst. Commissioner G. P. Hart expressed thanks to Miss Cunard, and took the opportunity of reading a letter he had received from an Ambulance Cadet who had represented London at the recent Malta Celebrations. Following the presentations, the choirs of the Enfield and Southgate Divisions gave selections, and County Surgeon Shaw-Smith presented a film show. Corps Officer Miss Denton received her warrant of appointment. Those present included District Supt. Miss Workman, District Officers S. Collins, Mrs. Burns, and Miss Vicary, and District Staff Officer A. E. Wells.

Eastern Area. The third annual Ambulance and Nursing Cadets Sports Day was held at Woodford, and proved a great success. The Henry Blore trophy for Ambulance Cadets was won by Fairbairn for the second year in succession, and the trophy for Nursing Cadets by Grays, again for the second successive year. The Deputy Mayor of Wanstead and Woodford (Councillor A. Page) presented sports certificates; and District Staff Officer A. E. Wells presented a Grand Prior s Cadet Badge to Sergt. Bassil Stopps (Romford).

The newly registered Hainault Nursing Cadet Division held its first open evening recently, 45 girls being on parade. Before enrolling new cadets, Area Cadet Officer Miss Parrott welcomed the parents and friends, and explained the objects of the Brigade. Mention was made of the fact that the member-in-charge, Miss M. Evans, is an ex-Cadet.

Field-Marshal Montgomery with a group of Cadets from London on a visit to Jersey.

NORFOLK

Bodham. Members of the Cadet Division staged their own variety concert, and raised over £8 for the uniform fund. County Cadet Officer Mrs. G. E. Portal spoke of the Cadet movement during an interval and congratulated all concerned in the management of the function.

Sprowston. A parents evening and enrolment ceremony was held recently, County Cadet Officer Mrs. Portal being the enrolment officer. Displays of Child Welfare, first aid, and home nursing work was presented by the Cadets.

Guist. Twenty Nursing and 12 Ambulance Cadets were enrolled by County President Lady Cook.

NORTHAMPTON

The Annual Cadet Competitions of the Northampton Corps resulted in St. Edmund Cadets gaining first place. The Home Nursing Shield was won by Headquarters Cadets, the adjudicators being Supt. H. Cooley and Corps Officer Miss W. L. Perkins. Area Cadet Officer Miss M. Hullinspected uniforms, and Amb. Officer Jones judged the individual tests. Thanks to the judges were voiced by Corps Supt. Mrs. E. E. Carpenter, who arranged the function.

SUFFOLK

Felixstowe. Nursing Cadets have formed a Parents Association, which undertakes the social side of Cadet work.

The Division has recently been augmented by an enrolment ceremony of eleven candidates, County Nursing Officer Miss Miller and County Cadet Officer Miss Botwood being present. Refreshments were provided by the Parents Association, which also held a social on 18th November.

SUSSEX

A most excellently arranged and enthusiastically attended Cadet N.C.O.s Training Course was held at Lodge Hill, Pulborough. County Commissioner D. Bryce opened the proceedings and referred to the excellent Eastbourne function and to the Regional Competitions, whereat Southwick were again successful.

Throughout the whole week-end, the Cadets were invited to run their own show, there being but a few Adult members present. A Brains Trust, Twenty Questions, and discussion groups, were well received. Talks included Qualifications of an N.C.O.; Drill (with practical demonstrations). The N.C.O.s job; Camping; Quiz demonstration; Diagnosis Competitions, and Cultural Cups

Competitions, and after each talk there was time for questions. It was pleasing to note the enthusiasm of the N.C.O.s present, and the manner in which they entered into the spirit of training. At the Saturday evening party the adults were exhausted by the time for closing down was reached, but Sunday saw the Cadets (some 70) and the Officers ready for an early morning route march.

Much of the credit of the course can be given to Asst. Commissioner F. A. Trott and County Cadet Officer Miss Trill, who were ably assisted by other members of the County Staff. No more need be said about the course, except that the Cadets voted that next year it should last for a week!

NOTTINGHAM

The County Ambulance and Nursing Cadet Competitions were held at Nottingham, the prizes being presented by Earl Manvers. Pleasley Nursing Cadets gained first place in the Nursing Section, and Creswell were successful in the Ambulance Section. The judges were County Officer Dr. J. Cohen, Nursing Officer Miss Garrett, Div. Surgeon J. R. Mutch, and Corps Surgeon R. J. Sprenger.

WEST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE

Southern Area. Nursing Cadets held their annual camp at Hornsea 32 Cadets and five Officers being in camp with Area Cadet Officer Mrs. H. Beverley in charge. Corps Officer Mrs. V. G. Booth was quartermaster, Cadet Supt. Miss M. Enzor camp nurse, and Amb. Sister Mrs. C. Brown camp cook. County Cadet Officer Banham inspected the camp.

Brighouse Corps. During the past few months the Parents Association has arranged numerous functions, including trips to Wakefield, to Meredith and Drew biscuit factory, and also a jumble sale, and a plot night supper, which included a firework display.

The Cadets organized an old time dance, and another dance towards funds of the Band Contest.

Huddersfield. At the Hobbies Exhibition, sponsored by the local Rotary Club, St. John Cadets had a display stand, and throughout the week members (Ambulance and Nursing) gave displays in home nursing and first aid. This useful propaganda had successful results, 40 applications being received to become Cadets.

Does your colleague read The Cadet ? Send for extra copy NOW.

CADET ACTIVITIES IN THE PRIORY FOR WALES

(Headquarters Priory House, 4 Cathedral Road, Cardiff)

NEW IDEAS

It is always helpful to get new ideas; specially at the beginning of a New Year do we feel we want to make a fresh start, to think of something original for our Divisional Programme. In my travels I have recently come across two ideas both from Nursing Cadet Divisions which feel are worth giving you. By the way, do you keep an Ideas Book Into it you enter any good ideas you may come across, and it saves a lot of searching when you suddenly want a new game, competition, or story. An Ideas Box is also valuable. Into this you slip any pictures from newspapers or magazines, even advertisements, which have some bearing on Cadet work. For example, a collection of pictures of flowers or birds could be made into a useful game or quiz to help with the Nature Badge; or pictures illustrating good and bad Citizenship (i.e.. well-planned streets, slum houses, etc.), would be useful in illustrating the badge of that name. Here, then, is one new idea I have just discovered :

This comes from the Clydach Division.

Miss H. Sykes; the Cadet Superintendent, has made a Cadet Library, every book being cased in an attractive paper Cover.

It is not very large, but contains books on hobbies of all sorts, specially those connected with Badge Subjects. A Cadet is the Librarian, and arrives at meetings in good time to give out the books to Cadets as they come in. The first quarter of an hour is thus spent informally, the Cadets reading whatever appeals to them. Miss Sykes includes books on Teen-age fashions sometimes a girl will see something she wants to make, then Miss Sykes will help her with this. There is also a copy of the Manual, the current copy of the Children s Newspaper, and one or two other magazines, including, of course, the Cadet. The books are changed from time to time, to make variety.

Everyone knows that at 6.30 Library time is up, and the books are handed in to the Librarian, who is responsible for putting them tidily away then the programme begins in earnest.

Zor D. Druitt, Cadet Training Officer.

WELSH FINAL CADET COMPETITIONS

Twelve teams had the honour of taking part on 8th October in the competitions organized by the Priory at the City Hall, Cardiff. The Lord Mayor, Alderman T. J. Kerrigan, was present to extend a welcome to the teams which had qualified to participate in this year s Welsh Finals, and the presence of Miss Virginia Cunard, Chief Officer Nursing Cadets, added further interest to the occasion.

In the two contests for the TwistonDavies Boy Cadet Cups the results were Senior Section: 1st., Tredegar Student; 2nd, Trelewis. Junior Section: Ist, Newport Pillgwenlly; 2nd, Aberdare; 8rd, Treharris; 4th, Trelewis; 5th Morriston.

The Lady Herbert Lewis Girl Cadet Cup was won by Treharris, followed by Cardiff Emergency, Kenfig Hill, Ebbw Vale, and Abercwmboi in that order.

Great excitement prevailed when the Principal Secretary and Commissioner for Wales (the Hon. John H. Bruce), called upon the Brigade Secretary (Mr. W. Mabon Abraham) to announce these results; and the successful teams who stepped forward to receive at the hands of the Lord Mayor and Miss Cunard the trophies and the personal souvenir gifts awarded to the first three teams were applauded by a large gathering of spectators. Thanks to the following Judges for their services were proposed by Professor J. Sinclair (Director of Ambulance) and seconded by Dr. Edgar Llewellyn (Surgeon-in-Chief for Wales) : Corps Surgeons T. J. Davies, J. E. Thomas, W. Bowen Owen, Div. Surgeon T. W. David, Lady County Officer Miss E. Gravenor, Nursing Officer Miss P. E. Jones, Major A. H. G. Field, and Lady County Supt. Miss G. Richards.

NEWS FROM THE COUNTIES GLAMORGAN

An eliminating competition for Cadet teams in the nine County Areas of Glamorgan was organized by County Officer E. G. Howells for the purpose of selecting teams to represent Glamorgan in the Welsh Cadet finals in Cardiff. Trelewis A and B teams were successful 90

in the Senior and Junior Boys events and Kenfig Hill won the Junior Girls.

MONMOUTHSHIRE

Monmouthshire s First Cadet Training Day. A thrilling day were the words used to.describe the experiences of the 80 Officers of the 62 Ambulance and Nursing

Cadet Divisions who attended the Training Day at the Ambulance Hall, Risca, on 12th November, arranged by County Area Cadet Officer Miss E. Kinsey. Asst. Commissioner J. Gibbs presided and expressed appreciation of the presence of Councillor Percy Jenkins, who extended a civic welcome to those present.

Problems facing Cadet Officers was the subject of an address by Miss Kinsey, who concluded with an appeal to make the Cadet Training Day an annual day of rededication to the Cadet Movement. The rest of the day was taken up by Cadet Training Officer Miss Zoe Druitt, whose address on Planning Cadet Programmes was as instructive as it was inspiring. Following tea Miss Druitt took a practical session in which every Officer became a cadet and worked exceedingly hard at exercises in drill and novel tests for training powers of observation, memory training, and encouraging other qualities needed by a good first aider. Questions and discussions concluded a day which all felt had been so well spent that it was decided to make the Monmouthshire Cadet Officers Training Day an annual event, the next being fixed for Saturday, 11th November, 1950.

During tea County Area Cadet Officer Mrs. P. M. Brown, Cadet Supt. S. Jones and Sgt. Alun Thomas gave an account of their visit to Malta.

Islwyn Corps Welcome Cadet Training Officer. A large gathering of Ambulance and Nursing Cadets of the Tredegar Divisions gathered at the Tredegar Ambulance Hall on 18th October to welcome Miss Zoe Druitt, whose stirring address on the history of the Order will long be remembered by all who heard it. Corps Supt. J. H. Wilcox introduced the Cadet Training Officer, who saw a display of First Aid and Home Nursing by the

Cadets of both Divisions and listened to Corpl. John Thomas and Cadet Mavis Green giving their personal impressions of the Cadet Movement. Following the Cadet meeting, Miss Druitt addressed the Officers, who greatly appreciated the encouragement, guidance, and advice given.

On the following day Miss Druitt met Officers and Cadets from Blackwood, Oakdale, Pontllanfraith, Ynysddu, and Wattsville at the Ambulance Hall, Ynysddu, where demonstrations were given by Cadets from each Division on bandaging, etc.

Training Officer s Visit to Aberbargoed.

Accompanied by County Area Cadet Officer Miss E. Kinsey and County Nursing Officer Mrs. H. Hughes, Miss Druitt attended gatherings of Cadets in the Rhymney Valley Corps at Aberbargoed. On 22nd October Corps Supt. E. Jones presided over a social meeting at which the chief speaker was the Cadet Training Officer. A Church Parade arranged for the following day had to be cancelled owing to bad weather, but a service was held at the Caersalem Baptist Church. The proceeds of the collection were devoted to the St. John Church Rebuilding Fund.

Oakdale Cadet Competition. A good attendance of Ambulance and Nursing Cadets attended the ambulance competitions held at the Ambulance Hall on 24th November, under the direction of Supt. R. Thomas and Cadet Officer W. Yemm. The Judges, Supt. W. Wells and Lady Cadet Supt. Mrs. Tanner, awarded highest marks in the two individual and the open contests to Cadet Rowland Yemm and Cadet Margaret Smith, who received prizes from Corps Treasurer W. J. Little and Div. Supt. A. Coggins.

Tredegar Officer Honoured. Miss E.

Miss Virginia Cunard handing the Lady. (Herbert) Lewis Cup to the Treharris team at the Welsh. Brigade Final Cadet Competitions.

Kinsey was the recipient of a presentation from the Tredegar Nursing Division in token of appreciation of ten years outstanding service to the Brigade in the capacity of Secretary of the Nursing Division and Bedwellty County Area Cadet Officer. Corps Supt. Mrs. N. Phillips and Supt. Mrs. D. Harris paid tribute to Miss Kinsey s work. To the Nursing Division Miss Kinsey had been a tower of strength, while the formation nine years ago of the Tredegar Cadet Nursing Divi- sion, which is among the most progressive in Wales, owes its origin and successful record very largely to her foresight and devotion. Miss Kinsey has been entrusted with the organization of Cadet activities at Centre level, such as the 1949 Cadet Rally in Bailey Park and the leadership of the Nursing Cadet Camp in 1948 and 1949 at Llanmadoc. At the presentation meeting the two Cadets who visited Malta for the Brigade Anniversary celebrations, gave interesting talks on their experiences, Cadet Sergt. Margaret Sulli- van dealing with the land and air journey and Cadet Mary Harper describing events in the Grand Cross Island.

Tredegar Nursing Cadets. The annual presentation of Awards and President s Parade took place at the Ambulance Hall on Ist October, where President Mrs. A. Williams, complimented the girls on their smart appearance. Miss E. Kinsey presented the Division with a tea urn, on behalf of the County YouthCommittee.

In the annual competition for the Mrs. W. D. Woolley cup the winning team comprised Cadet Sergt. M. Sullivan, Cadets G. Sullivan, L. Russell, and E. Mason. An individual prize was won by Cadet Sergt. Sullivan, Cadet B. Harris coming second.

MONTGOMERYSHIRE

An impressive ceremony took place at the Village Hall, Caersws, where Com- missioner Dr. R. (Davies-Jones enrolled eight new members into the Caersws Cadet Nursing Division. A large gathering of parents, friends, and supporters of the Division heard an interesting account of the work of the Brigade from the Com- missioner and learnt from Lady Div. Supt Irene Morgan of the origin and growth of Nursing and Cadet Divisions. Mrs. E. M. Kinsey received her warrant of appoint- ment as Vice-President of the Cadet Division.

ABERDARE

Cadets of the Upper and Lower Cynon Valley Corps attended a rally at Aberaman Welfare Hall on 19th November, when a warm welcome was extended to Cadet

Training Officer Miss Zoe Druitt by Commissioner Mr. Emrys James and Asst. Commissioner Dr. H. B. Pierce on her first visit to the Aberdare county.

On 10th December a party of Nursing Cadets representing the various units in the area accompanied County Cadet Officer Mrs. P. Harrison Roderick to the Aberdare Hospital where a gift of books collected by the Cadets was handed over to the Matron.

CITY OF CARDIFF

Ely and Fairwater Divisions ran two cadet divisions at different schools in the district, but during the war were com- pelled to close No. 1 due to lack of officers. A Special Reopening Meeting was arranged at Herbert Thompson Schools, Ely, invitation cards having been printed and distributed in the adjoining housing estates, bills placed in shops, and the Headmaster of the school asked to announce the meeting to his boys. Any misgivings about attendance were an- swered by over 60 boys attending, and 50 of these, including some juniors under 11, announced their intention of becoming cadets and bringing their friends After talks by Mr. K. Marshall (newly appointed Superintendent of the Ambulance Division), Mr. K. Evans, S.R.N., a cadet officer from Cheltenham now at a Cardiff Hospital, and Corporal E. V. Baulch, acting Cadet Officer, the boys witnessed a presentation made to two cadets from No. 2 division, Student Doug. Hartley and Cadet Cpl. John Fisher, who were present at the Malta celebrations.

The success of the meeting was further evident at the following Thursday s meeting, when over 50 boys again attended, and were given their first introduction to First Aid. The No. 2 Cadet Division is also steadily increasing membership, and now meets on two nights weekly. The Cardiff Education Committee has been very helpful in granting accom- modation in the schools for Cadet meetings.

Malta Visit. Mrs. Edgar Llewellyn, Vice-President of the Cardiff Centre, who accompanied her husband, the Surgeonin-Chief for Wales, to Malta for the Anniversary celebrations, had a most attentive audience at the Brigade Head- quarters on Ist December, when she gave an account of their experiences. The meeting was thrown open to Cadets parents and friends, and thanks to Mrs. Llewellyn were proposed by County Cadet Officer Mrs. P. Rees and seconded by Cadet Training Officer Miss Z. Druitt. Senior officers present included Com- missioner Capt. F. P. Robathan, and Lady County Supt. Miss G. Richards.

REGIONAL COMPETITIONS

Plymouth. West country interest in the activities of the St. John Cadets was amply illustrated when the Regional competitions were held at the Public Secondary School, Plymouth. Those attending were Lady Astor, Lady Burnett, Vice-Admiral Nicholson, Brigadier Heming, Air Vice-Marshal Hopps and Mrs. Hopps, County Commissioners Dr. Morton-Palmer, Dr. Vinter, Asst. Commissioners W. G. Mooney and G. Hingston. The results were :

Senioy Ambulance. \st, Treleigh (Cornwall) 2nd, Norton Radstock (Somerset). Junior Ambulance. I\st, Treleigh (Cornwall); 2nd, Glastonbury, Street, and District (Somerset).

Seniov Nursing. \lst, St. Boniface (Plymouth, S.W. Devon, and E. Cornwall); 2nd, Bristol South (Bristol).

Junior Nursing. Ist, Paignton (East, South, and North Devon) 2nd, Stratton St. Margaret (Wiltshire).

- County Commissioner C. S. C. Prance introduced the Commander-in-Chief, Plymouth Command, Sir Robert L. Burnett, who presented the trophies. The organization was in the hands of County Cadet Officers Mrs. Wood and G, Thompson.

No. 12 Region. Winning teams from Kent, Surrey, and.Sussex, competedat Dorking for the honour of representing the Region at the Cadet Finals. Some very good work was displayed;. the competition organization being in the hands of Asst. Commissioner J. P. Flavin.

The results of the competitions were : Senior Ambulance. I\st, Southwick Students (Sussex); 2nd, Tilmanstone Colliery (Kent).

Junior Ambulance. Iist, Horsham (Sussex); 2nd, Hastings Town (Sussex). Senior Nursing. Southwick Students (Sussex); 2nd, Brighton (Sussex).

Junior Nursing. I\st, Guildford No. 2 (Surrey); 2nd, Saltwood (Kent).

Trophies and prizes were presented by Mrs. Gordon Touche, wife of Mr. Gordon Touche, Member for the district, who was also present. Mr. and Mrs. Pirie Gordon and Lady Lambert were also welcome visitors.

UNESCO NATIONAL ESSAY COMPETITION

Patricia M. Slawson, aged 13, of Birkenshaw, has been successful in gaining second prize (£10) in the Junior (12-15 years) section of the above competition, the subject being Together we will build a New World . The competition attracted 45,000 entries, and was organized by the Council for Education in World Citizenship on behalf of the United Kingdom National Commission for Unesco. The essay will now go forward to the International Competition between 46 member nations of Unesco.

Patricia is a member of East Brierley Nursing Cadet Division, West Riding of Yorkshire. Well done, Patricia.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across See 9, 20, 24, and 28 across. A period of time. See 1, 20, 24, and 28 across. To decay. Baby s bed. To fasten. ests Colours. Toassert. A violent attack. See 1, 9, 24, and 28 across. Fashion. See 1,9, 20, and 28 across. Called. See 1, 9, 20, and 24 eS 36. East-South-East. To be insane. ayy)| Tearseatoyal, Used for battering. 38. Hill.

Down Surface. of the earth. Degrees of speed. Anewt. To work. Same as 37 across. 3. Serious. Painful. Reflected sound. A limit. To break. In front of. eelouue. Acask. Ashooting star. Acourt of itinerant judges. Litles. Ashort sentence. Costly. Freedom. A boy s name. By way of. A meadow.

REVIEWS

Have you decided on the books to obtain for your book tokens received at Christmas If not here are two excellent books which have recently been published.

In Search of Alice, by Guy Bousfield, has for its sub-title Being the adventures of William in Underland which gives a clue to its contents. The author, who is well known in Brigade circles, has dedicated the book to all those small children who have been good enough to have fun with him; and so once more we can understand the title better.

The story was written during the war to amuse the author s small boy during enforced separation. There are many amusing (and exciting) incidents and the treatment to a wooden soldier. who has fainted on parade is extremely good. Hot sweet glue, wrapping him up in warm shavings, raising his feet, might not be quite according to St. John treatment, but the instructions were to be found in their first aid book entitled Restoring the Rigid! Throughout the story William (possibly the son of the author) finds himself amazed by the antics of those he meets.

GOOD WORK WELL DONE

Prompt action on the part of Cadet David Carlile, of Bentley, Doncaster, probably saved the life of eight-year-old Graham Knight. Graham, while playing on a piece of waste ground near his home, was burned by exploding rubber cement. David immediately threw Graham on the ground, and beat out the flames with his hands, receiving no injuries. Graham had burns on hands and knees.

YOUNGEST MATRON 2?

In a recent issue of the Nursing Mirror, the following letter appeared :

An ex-Cadet of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Barkingside Division, has recently been appointed Matron of a day nursery at Grays, Essex. As her age is only 21 years in April last, I feel that she must be one of the youngest of these Matrons. Do any readers know of a younger one ?

The letter was signed by Cadet Supt. F, M. Jameson, of the Barkingside Division.

The publishers are C. and J. Temple, Ltd., Old Bailey, London, E.C.4; the price being 6s.

Friends of Van, by Brenda E. Spender (Country Life, Ltd., 2-10 Tavistock Street, London, W.C. 2, 8s. 6d.), deals with a boy called Van who whilst training for the Merchant Navy is accused of cheating and dismissed his ship. In the depths of despair, he meets with Bip and Tina Bray, who become faithful friends, two enthusiastic members of the Cadets of the St. John Ambulance Brigade. Quite a number of Cadets activities are recorded in the book, which is dedicated to none other than Countess Mountbatten of Burma, Superintendent-inChief of the Brigade at Home. The story unfolds with Bip and Tina out riding and finding Van on the edge of a stream. Van resents the intrusion of Bip, and the commencement of a life-long friendship begins with a fight! How kidnapping, a cave in a lonely chalk-pit, and the final scene in the Avenger, where Van s character is finally vindicated, unfolds itself with excitement and ends on the same note, has to be read to be thoroughly enjoyed.

CROSSWORD' SOLUTION

Across. 1, 9, 20, 24, and 28, Greetings for the New Year; 8, Era; 10, Rot; 12) Cots 13;)- lies 14) Arer 15) buess 17, Aver; 18, Onset; 21, Vogue; 25, Nameds 31) Dotess32) Ram) soo, Vale 35, Tea; 36, E.S.E.; 37, Ire; 88, Tor: 39, Escalator.

Down. 1, Ground; 3, Eft; 4, Toil; 5, Ire; 6, Grave; 7, Sore; 8, Echo; 11, Term; 16, Sever; 17, Ahead; 19, Tow; 20, Tun; 22, Meteor; 23, Eyre; 24, Names; 26, Motto; 27, Dear; 29, Ease 30, Carl; 33, Via; 34, Lea.

NOTICE TO READERS

The ST. JOHN CADET will he published once a quarter the next issue being dated Ist April, 1950. Single copies 6d. each subscription for the first four copies being 2s. 6d. post free.

The Editor will be pleased to receive reports, photographs, and particulars of outstanding events. These should be addressed to The Editor, The St. John Cadet, St. John s Gate, London, E.C.1.

Subscriptions and advertisements should be forwarded to St. John s Gate, London, E.C. 1.

Universal Button Co. TD. Manufacturers of COLLECTING BOXES of all kinds for Indoor and Street Collections, in Tin, Wood and Card.

FLAG DAY EMBLEMS from stock or to special design.

SELLING TRAYS AND COLLECTORS BADGES and all items of equipment for Appeals and Collections.

METAL

UNIVERSAL BUTTON Co. Ltd. SURAT STREET, BETHNAL GREEN, LONDON, E.2

Telephone: ADVANCE 2254. Telegrams: UNIBUTCO, BETH, LONDON.

WALL CHARTS

BECAUSE

WOUNDS,

RAISE FUNDS

CARDS AND SACHETS

one or other or all of the three races of germs, Streptococci, Staphylococci and B.pyocyaneus are found in every skin infection common to this country, and ANTIPEOL OINTMENT contains the antibodies (antivirus) of these germs. Healing is expedited by the proved ingredients of the ointment, and septic development is stopped or prevented by its antivirus sterile vaccine filtrates.

ANTIPEOL OINTMENT is unsurpassed for BURNS and SCALDS, for it is microbicide and non-adhesive, and do not require to be changed every day.

-RHINO-ANTIPEOL

affords rapid relief of COMMON COLDS, INFLUENZA AND CATARRH. _ Containing the antibodies of the germs common to infections of the nose and pharynx (Staphylococci streptecocci, B.pyocyaneus, pneumococci, pneumobacilli, enterococci, M.catarrhalis, B.Pfeiffer), Rhino-Antipeol is not just a palliative, but is a remover of the cause of the infection. During epidemics it is the ideal preventive of microbic development.

-OPHTHALMO-ANTIPEOL

is a semifluid ointment, more convenient than the ordinary Antipeol ointment for ocular infections and lesions, Eyes affected by smoke and dust are soothed almost immediately by the application of Ophthalmo-Antipeol, and the antivirus prevents germs from developing.

OFFICIAL PUBLICATIONS

CADET OFFICERS CONFERENCE, OXFORD

Official Report now ready. 1s. 6d. per copy (plus postage)

ROAD AND HOME SAFETY

For St. John Ambulance Brigade Cadets Price 4d. (plus postage)

PUBLIC AND PERSONAL HYGIENE

(Authorized Textbook of the St. John Ambulance Association) Price 2s. 3d. (post extra)

NO Oh ert

Also Available

CADET MANUAL Now 1s. 6d. (post extra)

COOKERY AND DIETETICS

For St. John Ambulance Brigade Cadets Price 3d. (post extra)

NATURAL HISTORY

For St. John Ambulance Brigade Cadets Price 3d. (post extra)

MEMORANDUM OF THE HISTORY OF THE ORDER Price 3d. (post extra)

ALL CADET UNIFORMS AND MATERIALS

Prices on Application.

Send your Orders to The Stores Manager, The St. John Ambulance Association, St. John s Gate, Clerkenwell, London, E.C. 1

Printedin Great Britain by SrepHeN Austin & Sons, Lrp., Fore Street, Hertford, and published by British Periopicars, Lrp., 46-47, Chancery Lane, London, W.C.2, for the VENERABLE ORDER OF THE HospPITAL oF ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM.