Captain William James Girling, who was elected to the command of the Blenheim Defence Rifle Cadet Corps in the year 1903, was born in Blenheim, in March, 1882, and is the only son of the late Mr. W. B. Girling, sometime of the firm of Messrs Girling and Co. He was educated at the Blenheim Borough School, and at the Wellington College, and afterwards entered his father's firm, of which he has since become managing partner. Captain Girling was a member of the Blenheim Borough School Cadets, and as sergeant of that corps was specially commended by Colonel Fox for his efficient service. Later, he joined the Wellington College Cadets. No. 1 Company, and afterwards assisted in the formation of the Blenheim Defence Rifle Cadet Corps, of which he became the first lieutenant, and subsequently captain. Captain Girling is captain of the Blenheim Rowing Club; and as a member of the Anglican Church, he holds office as people's churchwarden at the Church of the Nativity, Blenheim.