AUCKLAND ARTILLERY SENSATION

Gisborne Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 3662, 25 October 1912, Page 3

AUCKLAND ARTILLERY SENSATION

OFFICERS’ SERVICES MAY BE DISPENSED WITH.

[iTi TELEGRAPH—SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT] AUCKLAND, Oct. 23. Mmber.s of the Auckland Garrison Artillery are at the present time much interested in the probable fate of one or two of their most prominent officers. Some little while back, it wi'l be remembered, feeling ran very high in number 7 company because of the removal of one of the officers, Lieut. Parker, who had been in charge during the absence in Australia of Capt. J. F. Pullen. This action was resented to such an extent that the- whole company went “on strike” when called out for the King’s Birthday parade. A military Court of Inquiry followed, at which Lieut. Parker was practically on his trial, and the proceedings at the time were fully reported. Although no censure was publicly passed by the Court or the authorities on Lieut. Parker, that officer did not return to the temporary command of No. 7 Company. Fresh developments followed when Capt. Pullen returned to Auckland in July last. It is understood that Capt. Pullen notified his intention of parading with the division, but was ordered not to parade until notified to do so, and the climax now comes in an intimation to Capt. Pullen that the General Officer Commanding is willing to accept his resignation, and failing this that his services will be dispensed with.

Members of the Garrison Artillery are naturally at a ffiss to understand this ultimatum, as Capt. Pullen is regarded as an exceedingly efficient officer and is one of the most popular in the service.

t He is the senior Captain of the New Zealand Garrison Artillery, having had over 12 years’ service. It is stated that confidential reports have been submitted to headquarters, in which it is understood that he is indicted on a charge of inefficient discipline and poor administration. No definite charges have been preferred against him, however, nor have any specific cases been quoted in substantiation of these charges, nor has Capt. Pullen been given any data on which to make answer.

Apparently without courtmartial or military court of inquiry Capt. Pullen is to be forced out of the service. It will be remembered that Capt. Pullen was prominent in securing an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the summary dismissal of Captain Knvvett.