HONOURING H.M.S. ACHILLES.

Auckland Star, Volume LXXI, Issue 17, 20 January 1940, Page 8

HONOURING H.M.S. ACHILLES.

Our Mayor lias announced his intention of tendering a civic welcome to the crew of the Achilles 011 her return to Auckland. Tin's action would Iks misplaced appreciation of the achievement we are proud of, as there is nothing the sailor, esjieeially in tlio Xavy, abhors more than to he. made an exhibit. Last time a civic reception was. tendered the crew of -a warship—not very long ago— volunteers were called for the parade. 'J hirty-four (all Imperial ratings) were, willing, liut as the oflicer in command had accepted the invitation he. had to make an order that every man not required for duty should attend the function. As it was an order, the men had to "roll up" and about 120 men did the "foot- slog"—this out of 500 men. Every other man suddenly found that he had somo job to do on board. I know what I am writing about, as I have a son who has been in the Xavv (and is at present in the Achilles) for 15 years and ho was one of the manv who had' tlio laugh to seo the "showcases" march 'or C ; r o°f . ihl - v Bick Beadeye's libretto in H..\l.S. l'mafore" may lie. applicable: e means well, 'but o don't know." If the men are forced to attend this misguided hospitality the sponsors of the idea will bo cursed from bow to stern of the warship. ANTI-FUSS.