SIR DOUGLAS HAIG'S WELCOME HOME.

Otago Witness, Issue 3384, 22 January 1919, Page 59

SIR DOUGLAS HAIG'S WELCOME HOME.

GREETED BY A MIGHTY SHOUT,

Field-marshal Sir Douglas Haig had a brilliant naval and military reception on arriving at Dover en route to London.

He was also greeted by tens of thousands of people on the sea-front. The distinguished Field-marshal, crossed aboard the Belgian hospital ship Jan Breydel, which was escorted by three destroyers. Well out at sea the Jan Breydel was met by six coastal motor-boats and many seaplanes and aeroplanes. In choosing the ancient port of ' Dove# for his first landing since the armistice was signed he but followed the example of those other illustrious soldiers—Kitchener [who first touched English soil here after Khartoum) and Roberts (returning from the South African war).

As the Jan Breydel drew alongside the Admiralty pier Sir Douglas Haig was seen on the bridge, standing next to Viceadmiral Sir Roger. Keyes (who directed the Zeebrugge raid), and surrounded by his generals. : Distinguished naval officers received Sir Douglas at the landing stage. Guards of honour of the seamen from the montors and of the Royal Marine Light Infantry, with bands, were mounted.

On stepping ashore the Commander-in-chief inspected both guards, amidst terrific' cheers, and then entered a motor car with the Mayor of Dover. His victorious generals followed in others. The route was lined with soldiers. There was a gaily bsflagged triumphal arch at the dockyard entrance, surmounted by anti-aircraft guns, with banners of welcome from the Dover patrol and the Sixth Patrol, Dover. The patrol assembled and gave a mighty cheer. The drive £o the marine station on the pier was sC pageant of victory.' Unbounded enthusiasm was displayed. At a reception in the station the Recorder of Dover read an address of welcome. Our Wonderful Men.— Replying to the address on behalf of himself and the generajs,-the Commander-in-chief said that they recognised that the greetings were more than merely personal, and that they sprang from a profound realisation of the historic greatness of the occasion, and of all it symbolised, for the future of our race. He and his generals knew that the welcome expressed the feelings of gratitude and admiration which Great Britain entertained for the wonderful men whose unequalled courage and endurance brought us, by A'ictory, to peace. He glowingly referred to Dover's historic role, which had been splendidly maintained during the war. The Lordlieutenant (Lord Harris) presented a second address of welcome, to which Sir Douglas Haig replied, after which the Field-marshal and party left for London. The weather was beautiful.

The Commander-in-chief and the geriei*als on their arrival at Charing Cross were welcomed by the Duke of Connaught and Mr Lloyd George, Mr Balfour (Foreign Secretary), General Botha (South African Premier), Sir Robert Borden (Prime Minister of Canada), Sir P. Sinha, and the Maharajah of Bikanir (Indian peace delegates), other dominions statesmen now in London, members of the War Cabinet, Mr Asquith, and other distinguished people. The Grenadiers furnished a guard* of honour, and the band played "See tho conquering hero comes." . Five Royal carriages were waiting, in which the party drove to Buckingham Palace along.decorated streets, amid cheering crowds, who had assembled hours beforehand.

As Sir Douglas Hair's carriage emerged from the station the church of St. Martin's bells pealed merrily, and the gigantic-crowd raised a great cheer, which was taken up by the dense masses all along Duncannon street. The Commander-in-chief looked well. His hand was continuously at the salute, acknowledging his welcome. A squadron of aeroplanes circled over the station. One of the mightiest shouts ever heard in London greeted his appearance in Trafalgar square, which was black with people. So it was, too, along Cockspur street, Pall Mall, St. James's street, and Piccadilly. Down Constitution Hill to tho Palace was one continuous roar of cheering. Sir Douglas Haig and the generals were all recognised'by the thousands of soldiers among the crowd, especially General Birdwood, who came in for special cheers from many Australians. — : At Buckingham Palace.—

There was a stirring and historic scene outside the Palace, where a crowd of 80,OCO had assembled with children from all parts of London in the front positions. The seven aeroplanes which had accompanied Sir Douglas from the coast flew over the Palace, glittering like silver in the sun each 'time they wheeled round. A little later 11 other planes circled round the Palace in battle formation. Then came Sir Douglas Haig and his party. The enthusiasm of the crowd was tremendous. Deafening roars rent the air as the carriages passed and crossed the forefront to the grand entrance. Passing into the Palace the party was received" by the King and Queen and other Royalties. The Royal luncheon room was decorated with red, yellow, and copper-coloured chrysanthemums. Altogether 48 sat down, including, besides their Majesties, Prince Albert, Princess Mary, Mr Lloyd George, Lord Milner, Lady Haig, and Generals Sir William Robertson and Sir Henry Wilson.