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New Zealand Herald, Volume LV, Issue 16980, 14 October 1918, Page 6

Tho Otranto was carrying 800 passengers, including 745 American troops, whon she collided with tho Kashmir in very high* seas, and subsequently foundered. The survivors owo their lives to the conspicuous heroism of tho crew of the British destroyer. Ono survivor, Mr. Campbell, an American Y.M.C.A. secretary, says that tho Kashmir got out of . contra through a mishap to her steering gear. She struck ' the Otranto amidships, tearing a large hole in her side. Tho vessels were then e?ght miles from the Irish Coast. The Otranto steamed slowly for an hour until the inrushing water flooded the engines. She drifted closer to the coastline, hut owing to the sheer rocky cliff it was impossible to beach her. The destroyer Mounsey appeared in response to the S:O.S. call. The sea was so high that Captain Davidson, of the Otranto, advised the destroyer not to attempt to come alongsido, but LieutenantCommander Craven replied that he waa determined to give all the support possible. He manoeuvred tho destroyer into position and allowed her to drift towards the Otranto. Tho men on the damaged vessel, who kept cool throughout, were ordered to remove their heavy clothing and prepare to jump. The troops put on lifebelts and obeyed. The destroyer manoeuvred alongside four times, sheering off with heavy seas. Each time a proportion of the men jumped the gap of 15ft separating the vessels. Unfortunately i many missed and were smashed to pulp' between the vessels. Some just landed on the edge, some clutched the destroyer's rails, while other* slipped and fell, Finally, 20 men were loft on the waterlogged decks, waving for assistance. Tbo destroyer attempted to return the fifth timo when a giant wave washed off 12 of tho men, and compelled the destroyer to back away. The Otranto shortly afterwards sank. Mr. Campbell warmly praises the heroism of the destroyer's officers and crew, who took chances of almost certain death. The Otranto.'s officers were similarly gallant and devoted. They insisted on remaining on the ship, and wero drowned.