AMERICA SALUTES ISLAND OF MALTA

Auckland Star, Volume LXXIV, Issue 294, 11 December 1943, Page 5

AMERICA SALUTES ISLAND OF MALTA

ROOSEVELT'S VISIT

"Valorous Service Beyond

Call Of Duty"

X.Z.P.A. and British Wireless

Rec. 1 p.m.

LONDON, Dec. 10

President Roosevelt uaid America's tribute to the defenders of Malta, when he visited Valetta this week. He arrived at Malta on Wednesday in a Douglas troop transport with an escort of 20 Lightning and Spitfire fighter planes. He was accompanied by the Allied Commander-in-Chief in the Mediterranean, General Eisenhower, and other distinguished American officers.

After inspecting the guard of honour composed of 100 members of the Royal Air Force, 50 naval ratings, 50 marines and 100 United Kingdom and Maltese troops, the visiting President drove round the island.

The Governor of Malta, FieldMarshal Viscount Gort, greeted President Roosevelt, who was introduced to notabilities and Service Chiefs, including the New Zealander, Air Vice-Marshal Sir Keith Park, Malta Air Commander.

Promise Made at Casablanca

Addressing Lord Gort, President Roosevelt said: "Last year at Casablanca I told Mr. Churchill we would again control the Mediterranean, after which I would go to Malta on behalf of the American people. For many months I have wanted to pay tribute to this island and all its people, military and civilian, who for three years contributed so much to the cause of democracy. At last I ana able to come. I wish I could stay, but I have many things to do. I may say that during the past three weeks, Mr. Churchill and I feel we have struck strong blows for the future of the human race."

President Roosevelt read America's tribute from an illuminated scroll. It saluted Malta for "valorous service far above and beyond the call of duty," which maintained the highest traditions of the gallant men and women, who, from the beginning of time, lived and died to preserve civilisation." Mr. Roosevelt Jated the scroll December 7, which was the second anniversary of America's entry into the war. "The United States," he added, "will proceed until the war is won, after wh:2h we will stand shoulder to shoulder with our British and other Allies to make it a victory worthwhile."