U.S.A. FLEET.

Hokitika Guardian, 24 July 1925, Page 3

U.S.A. FLEET.

[Australia & N.Z. Cable Association.]

THK ROUT'D MARCH. SYDXKY, July 23. The march of the Americans—two thousand naval men—was not marked by any overflow of enthusiasm. Cheering on the part of the spectators was not greatly in evidence but still it wn.s sufficient to demonstrate that wo all love Jack whatever may be bis nationality. The route, was a long one,

from the landing point at Wool looniooloo Hay, through tlx; principal ** streets, to the Town Hall and thence round to the starting point. Vet every inch of it was packed with onlookers. The long blue column swung past with a tine rythm, in response to the welcome. Then the American Bands played out “Yankee Doodle,” “The Star Spangled Banner.” “Way Down in Dixie,” and other tunes dear to their hearts, and the banners across the streets and upon the buildings carried “Welcome to l.'nelo Sam’s Boys!” “Welcome to our American Cousins!” and other similar devises. A matter of comment was the youthfulness of the great bulk of the Americans. The march was a very fine demonstration of the efficiency of the Elect's ratings, but it lacked just that little touch of daredevil, rolling “swank" wherewith the salted British naval rating carries it off with his hell-mouthed trousers. All the street traffic stopped during the march, To-night's functions include a dinner at the Town Hall to the Admiral and officers of the Fleet, tendered by the Federal and State Governments, officers and men.

THF, MK 1.01 RXE VISIT MELBOURNE. July

The American Fleet arrived here in heavy rain, in icy weather, with a raging gale. Notwithstanding the inclement weather conditions, enormous crowds viewed the magnificent spectacle of the ship's driving through the boiling cauldron of the entrance to Port Philip. Inside the Heads, the weather slightly cleared, and braving the rain an enormous flotilla of small craft met the Fleet and accompanied it up the harbour.

ASKED TO APOLOGISE. MELBOURNE, July 23

The steamer Heemna, with over a thousand notabilities aboard, to view the entry of the American Fleet, was held uj), the- seamen oji her refusing to take the vessel to sea until Mr Bruce, whom they thought was aboard, had publicly apologised for his (remarks concerning the seamen, made in the 'House of Representatives during the debate on immigration. The demand was disdainfully refused. The guests came ashore. Later the party embarked on another steamer.

THE SPKF.CTI FS. SYDXKY, July 24. The speeches at last night’s official dinner to the visiting American Admiral and officers, were chiefly of a mutual I v complimentary character. MKIJfOFUNK, July 21. The unfortunate incident in connection with the steamer Weoroona, the inclemency of the weather, and the late hour the warships came up (ho hay robbed the welcome of some enthusiasm and spectacular effect. Nevertheless,

despite the weather conditions, great gathered along the toreshores a,nd cheered the ships as they majestically followed each other in long line, their crews manning the ships. Tim visitors responded eagerly to the cheering and flag waving from the shore. After anchoring the remainder of the day was spent, chiefly in paying ami receiving official calls and other social functions. To-day when the men came ashore the public will have a better chance ol displaying their feelings. The citv has bedecked and has prepared itself in ■ readiness, and if the weather permits the streets will present a brave sight. Mrs Coates, wife of the New Zealand Prime Minister, was among the guests aboard the Mcerootta, who were loblted of their expected trip. When the flagship Seattle was opposite St Kilda, as she came up the hay five aeroplanes rose from her decks anil circled over the column.