VICTORY TRIBUTE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23618, 30 March 1940, Page 12

VICTORY TRIBUTE

GIFT TO ACHILLES FIJIAN FORCE'S GESTURE SILVER TANKARD PRESENTED The presentation to H.M.S. Achilles of a silver tankard, commemorating the .River Plate engagement against the Graf Spec, in which the ship took a prominent part, was made yesterday by Captain V. R. Abrahams on behalf of the Fiji Defence Force. The tankard, which is decorated with the arms of the force, bears the inscription: "To Pi .M.S. Achilles from the Ist Battalion, Fiji Defence Force, to commemorate the victorv of the River Plate."

In making the presentation to Captain W. E. Parry, commanding the Achilles, Captain Abrahams described how, on receipt of the news of the Graf Spee engagement, all work ceased in Fiji for a day, and those who knew Fiji would be able to imagine the celebrations that took place. He felt it was an honour to set foot on board a ship whose deeds were hallowed by her recent victory.

Captain Parry asked Captain Abrahams to thank Major C. Brewster, commanding officer of the Ist Battalion, Fiji Defence Force, for the handsome gift. He said all his officers appreciated the great voluntary effort made by all ranks of the Fiji force. All in the Achilles looked forward to revisiting Suva. ' Following the presentation Captain Abrahams lunched on board with Captain Parry.