WAVELL'S TRIBUTE

Waikato Independent, Volume XLI, Issue 3890, 11 August 1941, Page 5

WAVELL'S TRIBUTE

FAREWELL TO N.Z.E.F. "MAGNIFICENT BODY OF MEN" (From the Official War Correspondent with the N.Z.E.F.) CAIRO, July 20. "As fine a fighting formation as ever went into battle for the British Empire and the cause of freedom," was the fine tribute paid to the N.Z.E.F. by General Wavell, in reply to a farewell letter from Major-General B. C. Freyberg, V.C., prior to General Wavell's departure for India. In his letter to General Wavell, Major-General Freyberg said he was anxious to send a personal message on behalf of all ranks of the N.Z.E.F. , "We have served together here in the Middle East for 18 months," wrote General Freyberg. "You have seen us grow in numbers and in efficiency and have helped us to the full extent of your power. From the senior commanders down through the division to the latest reinforcements, we share a genuine sense of personal loss at your departure." All felt proud to have served under General Wavell's command, the letter continued. All realised, too, that General Wavell's interest in the New Zealand troops had been a specially close and personal one. '"With all our hearts we wish you a safe voyage and success in your new and great undertaking," the letter concluded.

Before his signature General Freyberg inscribed the Maori words "Kia Ora Katoa."

"I very deeply appreciate the message from the New Zealand Expeditionary Force," General Wavell wrote. "I have seen the New Zealand division grow under you from a magnificent body of men into as fine a fighting formation as ever went into battle for the British Empire and the cause of freedom. "I am sorry that its first engagements should have been under such difficult conditions, but the stern test of those conditions showed the great qualities of leaders of men even more than success could have done.

"I send you and the New Zealand Expeditionary Force my grateful thanks and my confident wishes for your success in the future. I shall always be proud to have had you under my command."