The Home Guard
It was characteristic of Mr. Churchill that the one domestic engagement which he insisted on keeping even when absent in America was a broadcast to the Home Guard on their third anni- versary. From the very first moment of their creation, when there was threat of invasion, Mr. Churchill believed in the Home Guard (then known as Local Defence Volunteers), and he believes in them
today. They might have been called on to save the country 1940 by dealing with parashots and holding up raiding-partt when there were few organised troops available, and their prese here today will justify the despatch of the majority of the Ann to service overseas. They are equipped now, as they were not the for a wide range of military duties. Some are already experienc in handling anti-aircraft guns ; some have that precision of trainin which enabled them to make a fine show when they took ov guard duty at Buckingham Palace. Among them are boys of seven teen and veterans of the last war ; and a majority of them ar working hard every day in industry, agriculture or professional jo, All must devote a fixed amount of time to training, and most exec it. They are under military discipline. Every town or village ha .its local unit. The men know the districts in which they serve and the duties assigned to them. They hive never been put to th final test, and perhaps never will be, but the mere fact that the are there, ready at any time, reduces the danger.
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