Splendid Tributes to the Achilles

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 297, 16 December 1939, Page 6

Splendid Tributes to the Achilles

Congratulations by Mr. Churchill “MOST GALLANT ACTION” Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, Dec. 15. Tributes and other dispatches received by the Government which were read by tho Minister of Defence, Hon. F. Jones, in a broadcast to-night included a message from the First Lord of the Admiralty, Mr. Winston Churchill, expressing warm admiration of the most gallant action fought by the Achilles. Mr. Churchill’s message was:— “May I express the warm admiration which my colleagues and I feel for the most gallant action fought by H.M.S. Achilles, whose services were so generously given on the outbreak of the war.” The following reply has been cent to the First Lord by Mr. Jones:— “My colleagues and I and the Naval Board very much appreciate your kind telegram. We are proud H.M.S. Achilles has been able to take part in this gallant naval action.” Mr. Jones said news that had been reaching this country by broadcast and cables during the past hours could not have failed to stir the hearts of all New Zealanders, lie rejoiced with them in the victory secured and the active part taken in the naval battle by the Achilles. “Last year,” said Mr. Jones, “I had the privilege of spending two days on board the Achilles for the purpose of witnessing naval exercises carried out by that ship in conjunction with other units of the New Zealand Navy, but little did I think the experience then being gained soon bo tested in actual warfare.”