Fired First On Ajax

Northern Advocate, 15 December 1939, Page 7

Fired First On Ajax

The Ajax was convoying the French liner Formosa from Rio de Janeiro to Monte Video when the Admiral Graf Spee opened fire upon her, says the Monte Video correspondent of the “New York Times.” A wireless message from the Ajax brought the Exeter and the Achilles foaming into action, while the Formosa hurried to safety.

During the first intense action the Admiral Graf Spee tried in vain to out-run and out-manoeuvre the British cruisers, while the firing continued for four hours. The Exeter’s guns inflicted the first heavy damage upon the enemy, while the lighter British ships maintained contact fearlessly and effectively. Exeter Forced to Quit Thereupon, the German ship, now leading the chase southward, devoted all her attention to the Exeter, whose steering gear was damaged, forcing her to quit the battle.

During the latter engagement, the Admiral Graf Spee was so badly crippled that she made full speed for the

The Ajax and Achilles doggedly pursued the German ship. While off Punta del Este, the British cruisers swiftly steamed to the westward, taking advantage of the setting sun to get the Admiral Graf Spee silhoutted against the reflection in the eastern sky, while they themselves were protected by the shadow of the land. Night Falls anti Guns Blazing This forced the German to change her course disadvantageously, subjecting her to heavy fire. Thus night fell with guns blazing—a dramatic and picturesque sight for the many watchers on shore. Finally the Admiral Graf Spee managed to reach the entrance to the Rive Plate, and the British cruisers ceased firing.