Tahitians Give Lives For Free France

Free France

Tahiti, July 25.

AN unpretentious notice in the local, Government - owned newspaper brought the first full impact of the war to Tahiti.

Headed simply “Deaths for France,” the announcement read; “The Governor of the French Establishments of Oceania has the sad duty of bringing to the population of French Oceania news of the death on the field of honour of volunteers Trom the Batallion of the Pacific, the names of which follow: — Seargant Louis Holozet.

Ist class soldier Huriaau Onuu. 2nd class soldier Tetautaurii Puarii Maratai. 2nd class soldier Tahua Nahenahe Path. 2nd class soldier Tufariu Maere.

“The chief of the colony expresses to the families his most sincere con dolences.”

Native himaas and religious services were held for the individuals in their re spective districts, while a collective service was held later at the Paofai school in Papeete.

The deaths occurred at the great battle of Bir Hacheim, in Libya, where Free French forces made a spectacular stand late in June. They represent Tahiti’s first casualties in the w 7 ar.