SALVAGE FEAT

New Zealand Herald, Volume 79, Issue 24270, 11 May 1942, Page 5

SALVAGE FEAT

SHIP WITH BROKEN BACK ECHO OF FIRST DARWIN RAID (Special Correspondent) (Reed. 5.35 p.m.) SYDNEY, May 10 Her back broken in the first Japanese bombing raid at Darwin, a large merchant vessel has steamed 2000 miles to safety after the ship had been regarded as a total loss. This epic salvage task was undertaken by a young English captain and an Australian volunteer crew. The ship had been set afire by Japanese raiders, and subsequently beached, several of the crew being killed. Most of the accommodation was gutted and the decks a shambles of wreckage. Expert salvage men gave the ship only the slimmest chance of being saved. A young captain offered to try, and the crew managed to get the vessel on an even keel. Meanwhile, other attentions of enemy bombers had been received, but no hits were scored. The engines were able to be put into working order, a jury rudder was fitted, a salvage tug was in attendance, and the long journey to a safer port was begun. Fears were held that the vessel's back would break or might become unmanageable. "One rough day we went around in circles," said a member of the crew. "She was not exactly an ocean-going lady—but we are here." The paintwork was all burned off and there was a distinct sag in the middle. This ship offers an eloquent commentary of the splendid work of those responsible for "the salvage. HOLDING JAPANESE FIGHTING IN EAST CHINA LONDON, May 9 The Chinese are still holding their positions at Mienyang, 60 miles southwest of Hankow. Two days ago the Japanese were reported to have attacked with a force of 10,000 men. The Japanese aerial offensive in eastern China, aimed at the destruction of airfields, was stepped up to-day with bombings in Kingsi, Chekiang and Fukien. Forty-three .Japanese planes participated in eight flights. The Chungking Central News reports that French soldiers from Indo-China who attempted to join the Chinese forces were disarmed by Japanese soldiers on April 28. More than 100 French soldiers were disarmed on the outskirts of Chennan Kwang. FUNDS FOR ANZACS NEW YORK CONTRIBUTIONS (Reed. 5.35 p.m.) NEW YORK, May 9 As the result of the Anzac dinner ii> New York, 20.000 dollars are available for the Australian Comforts Fund, also 5000 dollars for New Zealand, which may be used either for the purchase of needed items or the funds to be transmitted directMR. CHURCHILL TO SPEAK LONDON, May 10 The Prime Minister, Mr. Churchill, u to broadcast at 19 hours Greenwich mean time to-day, which is 7 a.m. on Monday New Zealand time.