A series of recordings for radio broadcasts on Christmas Day 1940 in New Zealand: Christmas Greetings from New Zealanders in the Middle East.
Part 1 of 12
Opens with church bells and Mobile Unit commentator Doug Laurenson [Military Service no. 34957] introduces the programme.
An excerpt of organ music, the carol "Once in Royal David's City" followed by a Christmas message from Major General Bernard Freyberg, V.C. [Military Service no. 4006] the general officer commanding the New Zealand forces.
General Freyberg notes that the year we are about to enter may be one of the most momentous in the history of the world.
In a short time the New Zealand forces will be concentrated and equipped and our men will play their part. Meanwhile today our thoughts are with you in New Zealand with wishes for a Happy Christmas. We are with you in spirit. Kia ora
This item is part of a collection of recordings made by the Mobile Broadcasting Units, which travelled overseas with New Zealand forces between 1940-1945. They recorded New Zealanders' experiences of war and messages to their families and friends, which were sent back home to be played on a weekly radio programme.