ADMIRAL BYRD’S RETURN.

Taranaki Daily News, 20 February 1935, Page 4

ADMIRAL BYRD’S RETURN.

The completion of four major Antarctic expeditions without the loss of a life is a proud record for any explorer to make, and Admiral R. E. Byrd’s reference to his accomplishment was as much a tribute to his colleagues as to his own leadership. The official welcome accorded them at Dunedin reflected the admiration felt throughout the Dominion for the bravery, skill and endurance of the members of the returning expedition. It is true that science has removed some of the rigours of polar research expeditions, isolation, the most trying of them all, having been overcome since radiotelegraphy has been developed. While Admiral Byrd was reticent as to the economic or scientific results obtained by his latest exploration sufficient is known to convince New Zealanders that he proved himself a leader who was willing to take his full share of the trials and dangers of the work entrusted to him. With all that science can do there is still a heavy demand for personal courage and the faculty for organisation and leadership in successful Antarctic exploration. The fact that he has brought back his team of workers in good health and spirits is the greatest tribute to the success of the latest Byrd expedition. Its value in other directions can be assessed later, when its fruits are submitted to those who made the exploration possible.