WELCOME AT SAN DIEGO.

Marlborough Express, Volume LIIII, Issue 83, 9 April 1920, Page 5

WELCOME AT SAN DIEGO.

ENTHUSIASTIC PROCEEDINGS

[Press Association. 1

Australian and N.Z. Oafal* Anflooiatio*

(Received April 9. 9.5 a.m.) SAN FRANCISCO, April 7

A squadron of eight American naval seaplanes, flying in the formation of a flock >?f wild ducks, came out of the morning mist to greet the Renown off San Diego to-day. Far ahead a flotilla of six destroyers swept down, parting into two lines, and took up their positions three on each side of the battle- cruiser. Next came fourteen military aeroplanes, manoeuvring with beautiful precision directly overhead. It was a most impressive and dramatic reception. The Prince wa» on the bridge of the Renown at an early hour, and was immensely interested and pleased. The Renown saluted, the American fl^g by gun-fire, and the shore batteries replied. San Diegp is an important destroyer and aircraft base, of the American Pacific Fleet, which is represented by the flagship New Mexico. Admiral Wells "s base commandant, and Vice-Admiral Williams acting Commander-in-chief of the Pacific Fleet.

Captain Williard, of the New Mexico, boarded the Renow.n and was received by. the Prince and his staff, ivho aftei'Avards returned the call and lunched on'the New Mexico!

The Prince made an official landing in San Diego in the afternoon, and received a tumultuous welcome from a.gathering of citizens, the Hon. William ■ Stephens, Governor of CaEforma, and Mr Wilde, Mayor of San Diego, leading the proceedings. . Gathered near the. jetty were 75 "British war veterans who • were domiciled in California and \vJie rushed to war at the outbreak, abandoning their acquired American nationality. A number of Canadian soldiers and two Australian veterans of foiTnei| British Wars were also present, including one from the Indian Mutiny. The Prince on landing shook handsi with the veterans amid scenes of intense enthusiasm.

There was a procession of motors to an immense stadium resembling the Roman Coliseum, holding 50,000. Governor; Stephens, Mfcyor: 'Wilde, an.d .other officials 'welcomed the Prince, who replied through an electrically operated megaphone termed the ;magna vox,' making every word audible to the whole, nudienee.

The Prince expressed his thanks: for the most cordial welcome. San Diego was the first part of the American West that he had visited,' aridi he was very pro lid to be. .greeted, and escorted by destroyers arid' aeroplanes. He was delighted with' California*, and^espeaially- impressed at''meeting so.. niany.' British wai^-veteraris. !