“DUD” AMMUNITION?

Grey River Argus, 26 February 1942, Page 5

“DUD” AMMUNITION?

ON U.S. WARSHIPS IN FAR EAST. (Rec. 7.55.) WASHINGTON, Feb. 24. Rear-Admiral Blandy (Ordnance Chief) appeared before the House of Representatives Naval Committee today to give testimony regarding the allegations by Mr Martin Agronsky, the N.B.C. correspondent, when broadcasting from Sydney, that American Naval fire has been ineffective because the ammunition supplied to vessels was old and deteriorated. Mr Argronsky criticised both the United States and the British for ineptitude in the South-west Pacific warfare. Admiral Blandy admitted that the U.S. Navy is using some ammunition that was made ten years ago, but he declared that mere age was no criterion of its effectiveness. Admiral Blandy said both that he had known, and was most concerned at the report. The fullest investigation was being made. Admiral Blandy pointed out that the greatest danger from the report of the correspondent was that Axis propagandists will seize it and circulate it in South America. Admiral Blandy assured the House Committee that all ammunition was tested at regular intervals, and said no reports had been received about its ineffectiveness.