DIVISION IN PACIFIC

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25385, 17 November 1943, Page 2

DIVISION IN PACIFIC

DOMINION’S CONGRATULATIONS

SUCCESS IN RECENT FIGHTING (P.A.) WELLINGTON, Nov. 16. The following messages have been exchanged between the Deputy Prime Minister (Mr W. Nash) and Majorgeneral H. E. Barrowclough):— Mr Nash’s message: “Now that the forces under your command have so quickly arid effectively completed the occupation of Vella Lavella and the Treasury Islands, I would like, on behalf of the Government and people, to extend to you and your officers and men heartfelt congratulations on the splendid achievements of the Third Division. It is a matter of profound satisfaction that the casualties were not unduly heavy, particularly as we realise how severe was the fighting and how gruelling the conditions under which all of you have been living. You have just cause for pride in the valuable contribution the Third Division is making towards the expulsion of the Japanese from the South Pacific area.”

Major-general Barrowclough’s reply: “I greatly appreciate your very kind message, which is being published in divisional orders and will be a source of pride to all ranks of this force. This division has waited long for its opportunity, and I am indeed proud of the enterprise and fortitude of my command in its first contact with a very implacable foe.”