NEW ANZACS’ ARRIVAL

Evening Star, Issue 23499, 13 February 1940, Page 10

NEW ANZACS’ ARRIVAL

-VOYAGE OF THEIR LIVES" GREAT WELCOME AT PORTS OF CALL Press Association—By Telegraph—Copyright SUEZ, February 12. (Received February 13, at 1.45 p.m.) The New Zealanders are spending their first night in Egypt after a day full of excitement. Several said they had all had the voyage of their lives. The scenes as the armada _ entered ports of call beggared description. The police at these ports paid high tributes to the troops’ exemplary behaviour. The troops assumed complete control at one port, directing the traffic while the populace accorded them a most hysterical welcome. The police stood by smiling. The troops agreed that the most outstanding feature of the voyage was the extraordinary fraternising between New Zealanders and Australians and the crew of the French escorting vessel. The New Zealanders were in an hilarious mood on their arrival at Suez, and greeted Major-general Freyberg, who had preceded the convoy, with round after round of cheers. Major-general Freyberg was amused when, as his launch approached, the troops greeted him with cries: “ What’s it like ashore, soldier?” and “Where are the camels?” Mr Eden was mohhed after reading the King’s Message, one group trying to carry him shoulder-high. _ Mr Eden’s presence was a great surprise. It was acknowledged as a fine gesture to the Anzacs. The townspeople later gave the troops a rousing welcome as they Inarched through the beflagged streets.

AMERICAN INTEREST TRIBUTES TO COMMANDERS NEW YORK,. February 12. (Received February 13, at noon.) The evening papers devoted their front pages to the arrival of the Anzacs, emphasising the fine records of Major-general Freyberg and Lieuten-ant-general Sir Thomas Blarney anti their familiarity with fighting conditions in the East. CHEERS FOR "TONY" AUSTRALIANS' ENTHUSIASM LONDON, February 12. (Received February 13, at 1.45 p.m.) General 'Wavell recalled his service under General Allenby when he saw the Australians in action. Brigadier Allen, Acting Commander of the Australians, expressed - thanks on behalf of the men. The troops cheered the news that their safe arrival had been broadcast throughout Australia and called for cheers for “ Tony ” (Mr Eden). AUSTRALIANS AT ISMALIA LONDON, February 12. (Received February 13, at 1 p.m.) The Australians landed at Ismalia. Mr Eden boarded one ship before the disembarkation and listened while Sir Miles Lampson read the King’s message.