THE MARITIME REVERSE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 86, Issue 64, 17 March 1942, Page 4

THE MARITIME REVERSE

| 11 k. naval defeat which was suffered by the Allies in the Jav: Sea was the outcome of the scattered disposition of the Allie, forces. I liable, by reason of their commitments, to obey the firs principle of naval strategy, which is I lie coiiceiilration of forces lln Allied ships went down before a superior force. Those ship; which survived the actual engagement failed lo find a way oul The gallant men who fought these battles and found a sailor': grave had the satisfaction of knowing that they made a valuabb contribution In the cause of freedom, ami to Hie ultimate victor; which is lo insure I hat freedom. The fragmentary fleet which met the invaders of the Aether lands East, Judies could, Jiad its commander followed a policy o safely first, have remained to the south of Sumatra and Java, will the wide Southern I’aeitie ill which to retire. Had such a polls' been followed, however, it would have left the door open to lie enemy to move into for an attack on the seaports of the Isles o Sjlice. Such a policy had no attractions for the Allied seamen I'hey barred the way against odds, they fought, they returnci blow for blow in an unequal exchange; and they held up the enem and reduced his lighting strength. .11 cannot be said to wha' extent damage was mflicied on the enemy, and it is to no purpos to speculate on the matter. ft is only to be hoped that sindamage was considerable. The example of devotion to duly against odds should provid < \i iv man, woman and child <i model ol conduct to follow agailts odds, c\ ell ililto death.