ANNOUNCED BY KING

Evening Post, Volume CXXXV, Issue 150, 26 June 1943, Page 5

ANNOUNCED BY KING

FIRST SERVICE MEDALS Rec. 11 a.m. RUGBY, June 25. I The issue of the first two Service medals of the present war is announced by the King. They are the Africa! Star for the African victory, and the 193943 Star, which had their counter- j part in the last war in the Mons Star and the 1914-15 Star. The King, in a message to General Eisenhower, said that the 1939-43 Star would be the reward of those in the services who had taken part in the hard fighting in other theatres of war. j "During the long years of the North African campaign, with its fluctuating fortunes," said the King, "it was my constant hone that I might one day be able to see for myself the scenes of some of the famous hard-fought battles, and still more, those who have taken part in them. My wish has now 'been gratified and it has been my happy experience to be the bearer of congratulations of all the peoples of the Empire on a victory which will shine in military history. "Throughout the tour, it afforded me intense pleasure to see the hardened men of the three British Services, veterans of the Libyan Desex't as well as comrades from the west, in such high spirits and good health, and to realise that they were working in the closest harmony, not only witk each other, but with the forces of the Allies both in and out of battle. CONFIDENCE INCREASED. "Moreover, everything I saw when privileged to be the guest of our United States and French Allies served only to strength my confidence in the complete final victory of the United Nations. Heavy tasks still lie before our armies in North Africa, but it is plain to me that nothing will stop the gallant men of the United Nations who have already triumphed over so much. "To these men and their skilful commandeis I would ask you to express my gratitude for the past, and my heartfelt good wishes for the future." —8.0. W.