NEWS OF VICTORY

Waikato Times, Volume 106, Issue 22606, 10 May 1945, Page 4

NEWS OF VICTORY

DOMINION’S GRATITUDE LEADERS CONGRATULATED MESSAGES FROM MR FRASER (Official News Service) SAN FRANCISCO, May 9 The Rt. Hon. P. Fraser has sent the following message to King George: “May I express on behalf of His Majesty’s Government and subjects in New Zealand my deep appreciation of your moving message which was broadcast on this day of victory in Europe? The people of New Zealand regard it as fitting that the world should hear on this historic occasion the voice of the beloved leader of the group of British nations which has stood so long as a bulwark of democracy against the forces of tyranny. “To us who are gathererd at San Francisco Your Majesty’s splendid words will be an inspiration in our endeavours to set up machinery with which to secure a peace worthy of all those who have so nobly fought and so bravely died to attain it.” The Prime Minister sent these and other telegrams on the announcement of V-E Day: Frey berg Congratulated To General Frey berg: “On the occasion of the termination of hostilities in Europe I desire to send you and the officers and men under your command a message of warmest congratulations. It is a matter for the [greatest pride to our country that j the magnificent Second New Zealand Division should have played so distinguished a part throughout so [ many campaigns until this day of | final victory in the European theatre. 1 Once again I express my personal thanks to you for your most distinguished and loyal services.”

To Mr Churchill: “New Zealand rejoices with the people of the United Kingdom on this glorious occasion and joins with them in prayers of thanksgiving that after such magnificent efforts and such immense sacrifices we have progressed so far along the road to complete victory over our common enemies. We shall never forget the inspiration Britain and you personally have given us throughout.” Feat of Co-operation To General Eisenhower: “Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on his final great achievement of yourself and the forces under your command. The United Nations owe an incalculable debt to you for your brilliant leadership and your efforts to co-ordinate both in spirit and in deed the armed forces of many countries.”

To Field Marshal Montgomery: “I extend on behalf of New Zealand and on my own behalf heartfelt congratulations on your outstanding contribution to achieving the complete defeat of Germany. New Zealand will always be proud to recall that her Second Division served under your inspiring leadership.”