J. Rennie, Nmp

Now a Soldier of Distinction

From Our Own Correspondent

Rarotonga, Nov. 17.

REGIMENTAL Sergeant-Major James Rennie, NZMC, who was recentlison leave In Rarotonga from the Middle East, is a Native Medical Practitioner from the Central Medical School at Suva, whose career has been outstanding.

He is the son of Mr. Fred. Rennie, of Ngatangiia, Rarotonga, a Euronesian

whose father was Captain James Rennie, a well-known schooner cap tain of days gone by. He was selected from Ngatan giia School for a scholarship at Te Ante College, in New Zealand, and from there has passed to the

Suva Medical School.

An outstanding athlete as well as scholar, James Rennie took all the prizes during his last year at Suva. He was in New Zealand, on his way home to Raro tonga, when war broke out, and man aged to obtain permission to join up with the NZ Medical Corps. Before he finally left for overseas, he married Miss Clem ency Williams, a daughter of one of New Zealand’s oldest and best-known families, from Hawke’s Bay.

His promotion in the field was accom panied by good reports from his superior officers. He has a pleasantly modest per sonality which accords well with his scholastic, athletic and military prowess.

It is possible that Sgt.-Major Rennie will be allowed to enter the Medical School at Otago University, in good time. A great future can be foreseen for this young man. His education and experience, combined with his cher ished knowledge of Maoris and their problems, entitle him to the highest consideration from a progressive Gov ernment; and the people of the Cook Islands, Maoris and Europeans alike, hope that these abilities will be used to the best advantage.

Sgt.-Maj. J. Rennie.