GENERAL FRANKLYN

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 88, Issue 6, 8 January 1944, Page 5

GENERAL FRANKLYN

NEW CHIEF IN COMMAND OF HOME FORCES Recd. 7.15 p.m. Rugby, Jan. 6. Genera! Sir Harold E. Franklyn has b’?’i nnpointetd Commander-In-Chief of the Home Forces in succession to General Sir Bernard Paget recently appointed to chief command in the Middle East. General Franklyn has been commanding troops in Northern Ireland since May, 1941. His task was to train a large part of the field army for eventual service overseas. While it was light duty, any moment he might have been called to defend Ireland against the invader. American troops began to arrive in his area two years ago and he elaborated with their command detailed plans for mutual help in training, administration and mutual support in battle. His success in Ireland matched his previous carer of remarkable work in the command of troops and on the staff. When powerful German armoured forces were pushing rapidly towards the mouth of the Somme and channel ports, he was given command of a mixed force to close the breach southeast of Arras and, for two days, held ground against violent and increasing pressure until ordered to withdraw. The defence of Arras, said Lord Gort, in his dispatch, imposed a valuable delay on a greatly superior force.— 8.0.W.