U.S. EXPEDITION TO ANTARCTIC

Press, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 25094, 28 January 1947, Page 6

U.S. EXPEDITION TO ANTARCTIC

VISIT TO N.Z. BY SHIPS

<P.A.) WELLINGTON, January 27. The possibility of United State# ships from Admiral Byrd’s expedition calling at New Zealand ports was mentioned by the commander of the U.S.S. Onslow (Captain Frank T. Corbin), in an interview to-day. The Onslow had come to New Zealand, as the crew was due for shore leave, and an opportunity was taken to visit this country because of the high regard of American servicemen for New Zealand hospitality. Captain Corbin said he thought it likely that some of the smaller ships from the expedition might be sent here to give the crews shore leave, or if any serious engine trouble occurred in any of the vessels.

He could not confirm reports that the Onslow had been diverted to New Zealand from joining Byrd’s expedition. “We were ordered to sail to New Zealand from Guam and await further instructions, and, after successfully steering clear of a typhoon just after crossing the line—a most unpleasant welcome from down under—we received orders to sail for Wellington on a six-day visit. So here we are. keeping up the splendid friendship which was formed in your country during the war. “We will be sailing from Wellington on Friday morning for Pearl Harbour via Samoa and will probably spend some time there before returning to the States, where we are due for a refit and an overhaul in April.” Official visits were exchanged thi# morning, and Captain Corbin had lunch with the Mayor (Mr W. Apple* ton). Later he called on the Gover-nor-General (Lieutenant-General Sir Bernard Freyberg).